A Quick Note About Christmas and a Scarcity Mindset

Christmas feels like it has come quickly this year. I know that for most adults, this season brings some level of stress. For some, it is to the point of feeling overwhelmed. Our culture has turned Christmas into a time where we notice what we don’t have. Everything feels scarce. We don’t have enough time, money, or capacity to do all the things that are supposed to make this season “special”. We often miss loved ones more during this time of year. Our motives often aren’t truly selfish- we want to make this season magical for our children, we want to let others know how much they are loved and appreciated. 

In this season, take a pause to remember that we have more than we could ever ask for. God sent His son to the world.  It may not be possible to remove all of the stress or sadness that comes at Christmastime. We may still notice things we lack. But I encourage you to pause and see how our greatest need has already been met. Sinful humanity needed someone to come and live a perfect life and take the punishment of death that we deserve. Jesus was born, lived, died and rose again to do just that. So don’t fret over the incomplete list that didn’t get done because of all of the limitations we face in the world. Rejoice because Jesus came to redeem us and renew us. As the hymn “Joy to the World” tells us “no more let sin and sorrow grow, nor thorns infest the ground. He comes to make his blessings flow, far as the curse is found.” Because of Jesus, sorrow will cease, and healing will be complete.