Focus on Love This Christmas

Let all that you do be done in love. —1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV

My friend from law school, Diana, pulled into the snow-covered drive. I put on boots and went out to greet her.

“Merry Christmas,” I said, embracing her.

“Thanks for inviting me to your family Christmas,” she said. “I thought I’d have to spend Christmas alone after my flight home was canceled.”

“I wouldn’t let that happen,” I said, leading her down the walkway to the house. “Here’s a heads-up before we get inside. My parents are getting the house ready to sell, so there are a lot of projects going on.”

“I won’t mind,” she said.

Yet, despite her reassurance, I was self-conscious. The entryway’s trim was half removed and power tools were pushed against the walls. My uneasiness didn’t settle as I introduced Diana to my family. Conversation was smooth, but I wondered if Diana was comparing my family’s home to hers. I imagined that her family lived in a trendy home full of sleek appliances — a far cry from this messy Victorian.

On the way to the dinner table, Diana pulled me aside. “It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” she said.

I surveyed paint buckets and drop cloths, trying to determine what she was talking about.

“Your family loves each other so much,” she said. “I can see it in the way they look and talk to each other. And I feel so loved being here.” She was right. Regardless of the mess, we loved each other. And that was more important than the painting and patching that still needed to be done.

“So does that mean you’re coming back to help us retile the kitchen next week?” I asked.

She laughed, and we joined the rest of my family in the dining room.

Lord, help me to focus on the things that matter and the people I love.

—Logan Eliasen

Digging Deeper: John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:7

Excerpted with permission from Daily Guideposts 2020, copyright Guideposts.

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Your Turn

Today doesn’t have to be perfect. Tomorrow doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s all about love! God poured out His love for us and we have the privilege to share it with others. Let’s love! Come share your thoughts with us on our blog. We want to hear from you! Merry Christmas, friends! ~ Laurie McClure, Faith.Full