“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”—Luke 2:13-14

On December 8, I had the words, Slowing Down, written in my journal. Despite me taking my time to enjoy putting up my decorations, I hadn’t been able to fully still my heart to prepare for the true reason of this season...celebrating the birth of Our Lord and Savior.

It’s been a rough few months with my mom. Last week, I was at my wits end with her. I had just about had it with her negativity and nasty messages. I told my husband; I don’t know how much longer I can take this. Her critical spirit is a real joy killer. I was letting it affect my attitude.

On Monday, her calls were non-stop. I was dreading taking her to her doctor appointment the next day by myself. Monday afternoon, I started to get a sore throat. By Tuesday morning I could barely swallow. I felt so bad, I went to urgent care in the clothes I had worn to bed.

There was no way I was going to be able to take my mom to her doctor appointment. When I reached out to the office and let them know I was sick but could do a virtual visit without my mother, I wasn’t sure if that would happen. Because I am her medical POA, they were able to accommodate me.

What a blessing my sickness brought. Rather than me having to walk on eggshells and be stressed out at my mother’s doctor appointment, I was able to be totally honest with the physician assistant about my mother’s behaviors. God provided.

As I type this in my pajamas on the afternoon of my birthday, still not feeling 100%, I see God’s hand in slowing me down this week. These four days of being homebound, I have had precious alone time with Him. My mother’s phone calls have subsided enabling me to enjoy the peace in His presence. I have truly been able to Savor my Savior. Isn’t this what Christmas is about?

God forced me to slow down so I could experience the peace and solitude my weary soul needed. It helped me to break free from the activities and demands and truly find rest in Him.

On Wednesday, let us remember how God miraculously sent His Son to dwell among us. As John 1:14 says, The Word became flesh. We celebrate His birth for without it, we wouldn’t have His death on the cross that left us with the most precious gift of all…the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Thank You Jesus for the gift of life! May each of you have a Merry Christmas and Savor Your Savior with all He has done for you.

Father God,

Thank You for sending Your Son to take up residence on the earth by becoming man to dwell among us. Forgive me when I let someone’s behavior steal my joy. Reorder my thoughts and heart toward You. With life’s challenges, I ask for peace in my mind and heart. I lift those up to You who aren’t feeling well. I ask for healing of their bodies, minds, and souls. May those who don’t know You, find You in unexpected ways. I pray these things in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

December Verse

“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”—John 1:14 (NASB)

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