The Perfect Christmas

Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. — John 15:4

At Christmastime, there’s just so much to do: picking out the perfect tree, finding the perfect gifts, hosting the perfect party, and planning the perfect Christmas meal. These are all wonderful things, but the quest for the perfect Christmas can turn overwhelming and stressful. Lay down your need for perfection. Remember that Christ came because we aren’t perfect.

Odds are, there’ll be a bare patch on your tree, a misplaced gift, and at least one mishap in the kitchen — and that’s okay. You can rest knowing that you, your home, and your planning don’t need to be perfect. The truly perfect Christmas is one spent enjoying the blessings of friends, family, and, above all, Christ. So sing the carols, delight in the lights, eat one more cookie, and give praise to the One who gives you reason to celebrate.

May my heart be full of joy, Lord Jesus, as I seek after You instead of perfection.

Excerpted with permission from 365 Devotions for Rest by Christina M. Vinson, copyright Zondervan.

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Your Turn

Without a doubt, this Christmas isn’t going to be perfect. We probably can’t all be together like we normally would be. Financially, we might not be able to afford what we used to be able to buy, wrap, and put under the tree. But, perfection isn’t the goal anyway. Jesus is the center. He is the focus. He is the reason. We can rejoice in Him, right? Come share your Christmas joy with us, friends! We want to hear from you! ~ Laurie McClure, Faith.Full