Traffic Jam - Monday December 08, 2014
Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at Me, your High God, above politics, above everything. Ps. 46:10 MSG
'Tis the season . . . for long lines, crowds, and lots of traffic. As Christmas approaches (or even beginning in October!) the main shopping areas have streets with cars backed up and much waiting time at stoplights. It is a struggle not to be impatient and frustrated. But I heard someone speak once about the blessing of being stuck in traffic. There is nowhere to go, nothing you can do to make things move faster. It gives you time to look around, notice things, and take a deep breath. Bright lights and decorations are everywhere, and although people may try to secularize it, it is still all in honor of the birth of Jesus. Let the wonder of it displace your stress.
Jesus also found Himself "stuck in traffic" during His time on earth, and we can learn from His example. Crowds closed in on Him so that He could barely move, and He was surrounded by needs and demands. But He didn't just barrel through the day feeling rushed. He lived in the moment. He would visit, heal, and offer words of comfort. The lesson for us is that what Jesus did is especially important at Christmas. As you enter into this day, take the challenge to respond to the crowds and chaos with peace and patience. Consider those around you who are overwhelmed this season. It will speak volumes to them if you take the time to respond to them with kindness. They will see a glimpse of Jesus, which could turn out to be the best Christmas gift of all.
Submitted by:
Kelly Lewis
Grace Point Community Church
Lewis Center, Ohio
One-Year Reading Plan:
Hosea 10:1-14:9
Jude 1:1-25
Psalms 127:1-5
Proverbs 29:15-17
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