Then while I am recuperating from my decorating frenzy, my spirit soon begins to yearn for the smells of cinnamon and oranges and scented candles; my eyes can’t wait to see the beautiful gold, green and red decorations glistening on every corner and in every store; I look forward to the shopping, holiday gatherings, and wrapping presents. I admit it – I am a Christmas-aholic. I love the Christmas season!
Is it wrong to love the Christmas season so much? Absolutely not – as long I keep myself grounded in my faith, and don’t forget that the most exciting part of Christmas, is CHRIST!
Despite my passion for the holiday traditions and treasures, I try to never lose sight that this month is really all about a birthday party! A birthday party to celebrate the most special gift ever known to man – the birth of Jesus, and God is the ultimate gift giver with this gift of His Son.
One really important thing I didn’t mention about the holiday season yet but that I adore, is hot cocoa. Who doesn’t feel warm, snuggly and loved while sipping on a steaming cup of cocoa with marshmallows or whip cream piled on top! Cocoa, or hot chocolate as us southerners like to call it, is usually enjoyed during times of happiness, warmth, and family, and this word can also be used to help us remember the important aspects of Christmas. COCOA can act as a reminder of the happiness and warmth we can enjoy due to being a part of God’s family.
C – CHRIST
Matthew 1:18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
O – ORNAMENTS
1 Peter 3:3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such a braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.
C – CHEERFULLY CELEBRATE THE SEASON
Proverbs 15:13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.
O – OVERJOYED VS OVERWHELMED
Matthew 2:10 –12 The shepherds saw the star, and they were overjoyed – they were overcome with delight, awe, motivation, encouragement, love for God – they were overwhelmed with the gift of life.
A – ABUNDANCE
Jude :2 ..mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
As you prepare for your holiday season, pull all your decorations out of the attic and dust off your Christmas CD’s, stay focused on the true meaning of our traditions – CHRIST. Decorate your home with the love of Christ, cheerfully celebrate the joy of Christ in your heart, be overjoyed and not overwhelmed, and strive for spiritual abundance rather than seasonal abundance. The next time you are in the mood for a hot cup of steaming cocoa, I pray that you will be reminded of these five important things, and as the warmth of the cocoa trickles down your throat, you will allow the warmth of God’s love to pour into your heart.
SPECIAL NOTE! I hope you will visit my blog each day this month! I am going to be sharing some great recipes and Christmas ideas and devotions! Merry Christmas!
Thank you for this post. I love how you used COCOA as a way to keep our focus this Christmas season.
I know we have never met, except for by the grace of God leading me to your blog, but I would like to officially double dog, lick the frozen flag pole dare ya! Okay, actually it extends to both you and your readers.
I don’t know if this is proper blogging etiquette or not, so do forgive me if I am a little rough around the cyberland edges with my dare.
If you desire to to the dare, please stop by my blog today…
Blessings,
A Simple Country Girl (aka Darlene)
Well, I think I need to go make myself a cup of Cocoa and be reminded of the truth each letter holds.
Drinking in His love and filled with His warmth,
Joy
Wow Tracie….
you never cease to amaze me with the way you take simple things and turn them into God-oriented things…its a challenge for my life to do just the same.
May God bless and keep you and yours always.
xoxo