Being Intentional About Reflection
The Christmas holiday is one of my favorite times of year, when we can unwind a bit and downshift from the workload of our jobs, schools, and life in general. As the end of the year quickly approaches, it also becomes a time of reflection. As we look back over this past year reviewing the highs and lows of what has or has not taken place in our lives, keep in mind that there is always something to be thankful for. Even when things don’t quite go as we had planned, just knowing that God is still very much in control can provide comfort especially during these uncertain times. Entering this Christmas season and remembering the true meaning of the holidays in celebrating our Savior’s birth also helps to keep things in perspective.
Staying Connected
As I get older, I have come to realize the importance of relationships with others around you (family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, church members, etc). I have learned to appreciate and value those relationships even more as the years go by. So I’d like to encourage you to reach out to those loved ones and friends over this holiday season that you may have lost contact with over time. Give a call, send a card/note/text, take a short visit as time would allow.
Following The Example of Jesus
Many times we get so caught up in the receiving end of ‘what am I getting, or what do I want?’--but flip the script a bit there and see how or what you can give to someone else. It might be as simple as giving of your time and being a good listener to someone else who needs to share. As we remember the scripture, John 3:16, that “God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him will not perish but have everlasting life,” what better example is there than to see how our Heavenly Father gave of Himself that we would have eternal life with Him?
During this holiday season, I encourage each of you to see how you can give of yourself to bless someone else who may be in need. I believe that you will surely reap what you sow in ways that you may have not even imagined, since our God is faithful.
Wishing each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
-Elder Duane Bullock