Growing up in rural Ireland the lead up to Christmas in our home came with its usual excitement and traditions: the anticipation of a home decorated with lights, tinsel and baubles, parties, sweet and savoury treats and time with extended family and friends. Yet there was always this one day, around the middle of December that signalled that Christmas was right around the corner. It was the arrival of….the bumper, special, two week edition of…the Christmas TV guide! Now our home was never one that purchased a TV guide at any other time of the year, but this was all part of our preparation for Christmas. From the very first evening that it was brought into the house that TV guide was read and analysed until the New Year. Programmes and movies were circled, plans put in place to watch or record on VHS, this book would set our plan of action into the New Year.
With 24/7 news, the internet and social media the world of information and other people’s opinions has been rapidly expanding over the past 20 years. Information buzzes inside our heads and it’s been easy to lose our focus. Perhaps we have gotten distracted or pulled away from the voice of God, or we have set His word to the side letting other things steal our time and priorities.
In Hebrews 4:12 we read:
“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and morrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.”
With all of the information that is available to us, let’s be mindful of the amount of time that we are spending in the word of God. Before the news has a chance to dictate our mood and before we put our plans into place for the day, let’s commit to delving into the word of God each day, knowing that His word is as true and accurate as the day it was penned, and will give us direction for what we face. In keeping ourselves rooted and grounded in His word and as we ask the Holy Spirit to lead us instead of the media swirling around us, we can rest knowing that even with the trials and sorrows of this world that we can take heart that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). When we walk in that place of security, peace and joy, our families and people in our neighbourhoods will take notice. So this Christmas season, if the TV guide arrives at your home (I’m sure it still will in ours!), it’s my prayer that we will all be reminded to not neglect the word of God. Let’s ensure His word is the most well worn, highlighted and cherished book in each of our homes this Christmas season and throughout 2022.
Father, I thank You that Your word is truth and is relevant for all that’s going on throughout Ireland and the world. Father, I pray that I would continue to be committed to Your word, seeking after You for direction in my life. Holy Spirit lead and guide me. I pray that I would be known as an atmosphere changer and someone who walks in Your peace, goodness and joy no matter what is going on around me. Amen.