Normally, this would be the most wonderful time of the year. But in 2020, everything seems different. We still have to-do lists to complete and a holiday to plan for, but now we have a pandemic to navigate and anxiety over what the future may hold.
But what if we chose to pause the busyness and stress of this time and discover a deeper joy? What if we slowed down to embrace a pace of wonder?
We can. You can. But to experience the most wonderful time of the year, we’ve got to start making it the most worshipful time of the year. Because wonder and worship go hand in hand.
It may not be easy. This year has been hard. Maybe you’re experiencing the loss of a loved one, the loss of a dream, or the loss of what you thought your life would look like. Maybe you’re in a season of waiting. But your past experiences don’t have to dictate your future expectations.
When we worship, we’re expressing awe at someone or something. At this time of year, we all have reason to worship—and it’s not tied to our current circumstances. We have reason to worship because of the gift we have received through Jesus.
Just look at what happened when some wise men heard about the birth of Jesus:
And when they [the wise men] saw the star, they were so ecstatic that they shouted and celebrated with unrestrained joy. When they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, they were overcome. Falling to the ground at his feet they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure boxes full of gifts and presented him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 TPT
For hundreds of years, people had been waiting. Waiting on God to fulfill His promise to send our Savior. And Christmas is one of the best reminders that God keeps His promises. He sent us Jesus as the ultimate gift to show that He wants to be with us.
The wise men celebrated with unrestrained joy. They were overcome. They fell to their feet and did the only thing you can do when faced with that much wonder—they worshiped.
This Christmas, instead of focusing on what you need to do, worship God for what He has done for you. Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on God’s love.
Slow down to a pace of wonder by worshiping God and thanking Him for the gift of Jesus. Reclaim the joy of Christmas, and just ask God to restore your sense of wonder.
