Wow! It's almost Christmas and I'm so pumped about what God has in store for us at the Christmas Eve service. So many guests will be there and hearing the gospel in a clear way! Our music team is going to have a blast leading us in carols and some great special music. And our Christmas choir seems to be growing by the day. It's not your typical "church" choir.
It's going to be an incredible night and I can't wait........until it's over. Isn't that sad?! But wait, because it's not sad. It's exciting. Let me clarify. I'm loving my Christmas season. I'm super pumped about Christmas Eve. I'm seeing lives changed by Jesus Christ and people turning to Him for the first time. And I'm having so much fun watching my boys enjoy the trees and lights. So why can't I wait 'til Dec 24th at 7:00p?!
Because I'm going on vacation afterward!!! I get to go hang with my wife and kids for a week. I get to enjoy the outdoors in the middle of Virginia. I get to relax. And I can't wait.
You might think this is a weird post, but let me explain why I've written it. You need a vacation! Well, maybe you do. Do you work hard at your job, pour into your family and friends, love your spouse, give everything you have to serve the Lord? If yes, then you need a break. It's ok to take it. And it's ok to look forward to it! The abundant life Jesus offers is full of incredible things. Each new day holds some amazing possibilities. And I understand the drive to always be doing something. But Jesus was NOT opposed to rest. Don't forget, he got in a boat and went to sleep while people stood at the shore probably screaming and yelling for him to help them. He knew he needed to rest. And He is obviously very smart.
I have to remember this myself. I'm already making my trip to-do list. Haha. It's just how I'm wired. "What can I get done while I'm away?" And while it is good to get away and think about my job and my home, I have to make sure I just get away. My long term impact will be much, much greater. And so will yours.
I can't wait for Christmas Eve. It's going to be an awesome night and it will kickoff an awesome week away. That's not the point. The point is this: if Jesus needed rest...so do you and I. Sleep tight and Merry Christmas!
