As we were putting up our Christmas decorations last Saturday, I thought about all the trappings of the season. There is so much energy put into this holiday. Christmas has become the dominant theme of December. I wondered, as I searched for the optimal tree branch for my ornament, "What is this doing to my soul?" Everything we do affects our souls. Every attitude we hold shapes us. So, what is the Christmas season doing to my soul? As I shop, party, eat, decorate, celebrate...what is this doing to my soul?
It's a good question, and not hard to answer. The hard part is remembering to ask it. When I answer the question, I often realize that I need an attitude adjustment. Sometimes, I may need to change my activity. But most often I need to change my heart.
Jesus came to earth to give life to me. It cost him his life on the cross. Christmas ought to breathe life into my soul. It can, as long as I guard my heart.
So, I'm monitoring my heart, this Christmas, watching for Jesus to breathe
life into me.
