Take Heart, Holiday Busts Tell the Meaning of Christmas
Sometimes, the most annoying-not-as-we-planned-it holiday busts BEST tell the true meaning of Christmas
I was editing these photos thinking how lovely Christmas is and how decorating was so fun.
Looking through rose-colored glasses
Which made me ALMOST forget about the kiddos juggling ornaments, dropping ornaments, then breaking ornaments, and me feeling annoyed. Then there was a massive breakdown because, for whatever reason, our dare-devil son got scared when his dad lifted him up to put the angel on the tree. (That picture didn’t turn out as planned.)
Usually decorating is one of our favorite things to do. But this year, we were off.
Grumpy, off.
Not much fun, off.
However, do you know what? Even though I can get in my head how perfectly I want our holiday, memory-making moments to play out, this holiday bust didn’t bother me.
Lately, I haven’t minded all of life’s everyday bumps and imperfections. Maybe because I’ve noticed that no matter how many lists, conversations, or prepping we do, most things don’t ever go fully as planned.
Flawlessness is elusive.
Impossible.
It can’t be accomplished.
There might be a message in that. Perhaps that’s our everyday proof that God means what He says…
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
All of the everyday, unavoidable bumps remind us that perfection is not God’s message. Instead, we are held in the palm of His hand because of His grace.
When we stand in front of Jesus and say: Please God, I need you. Walk this life with me. He always says yes. We are loved by Him simply because He created us.
Oh, sweet grace.
So, bring on the photo-worthy moments of Christmas.
Beautiful Christmas trees everywhere.
Gifts.
Food.
Family.
But also, bring on the holiday busts.
The moments that remind us grace is needed abundantly on this earth. Because those moments too can remind us of the kind of grace we already have.
Free.
Bountiful.
Gifted to us through a baby in a manager by a God who deeply loves us.
May you enjoy this holiday season – every single bumpy, wonderful moment of it.
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Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
I came across a post on Facebook about being the mom of 3 boys, and I can relate! I'm the mom of 5 boys and 2 girls and I can honestly say that I believe I won't ever have to change a tire or go shopping alone. They bring different joys, but one isn't better than the other. You're right, people don't always recognize the blessings of raising boys, but as the mom of many, I know having boys keeps you on your toes, and brings unbelievable rewards!
Glad you liked the article. I am sure if I had daughters, I would love it just as much, but raising sons sure is fun!:)