Help for the Holidays

When you realize that THE HOLIDAYS are upon us, does the thought strike fear in your heart? Excitement? Dread? Sheer joy? Panic? Guilt?  Maybe a feelings potpourri of allof these?

Same here!  So let's work together to get rid of those feelings of guilt and fear and dread and instead prepare our hearts to celebrate with joy and peace - sound good to you?  It does to me!

A few weeks ago, I solicited your help and you came through with some really great ideas.  Thank you!  Over the next few posts, I'll be sharing what I learned from you so that we can all benefit. Keep an eye on the blog and tune in to The Jules Show, 88.9 The Reach WMSL, on November 6, 8-11 PM for more info.

In the meantime, let's get this thing started!

What matters

For riches are not forever,
Nor does a crown endure to all generations. Proverbs 27:24

We read that verse and nod in agreement. That's right, we say. Yes, totally agree. Amen.

We say with our mouths.

What about with the rest of ourselves?

What does our behavior say?

We behave what we believe. And we might give verbal and mental assent to this verse from Proverbs but what does our behavior indicate we believe? Our actions, the use of our time and all our resources? Particularly as a parent...

Do I spend more of my time and energy concentrated on helping my child develop athletic or academic skills, thinking that will be what they need "to be successful in life"...an attempt to insure "riches" ? Does my behavior indicate a greater value on the pursuit of physical or intellectual riches or "crowns"?

Where on the ladder of emphasis do I place the things of the Lord - His Word, His Kingdom, His Bride?

What would my children say is most important to me? For them?

I'll close with this from Isaiah 40:8...

The grass withers, the flower fades,
    but the word of our God will stand forever.