… at least that’s what the song says.
Jolly, however, isn’t always easy to come by during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Don’t get me wrong, I love this time of year, but the truth is I often approach the month of December with an ounce of trepidation.
Calendar open – I gaze upon little squares covered in graffiti. With so much merry-making to do, I breathe out a long sigh and a prayer, “Lord, give me the strength to be jolly.”
Am I the only one who can become weary in the holiday shuffle?
Words from my pastor come as a welcomed answer to my prayer.
A domino effect – he called it – to find strength. It went something like this:
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise… Psalm 100:4
Thanksgiving ushers us into the presence of God.
… you will fill me with joy in your presence … Psalm 16:11
As we linger in His presence, joy is poured out on hearts ready to receive.
… for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10
Choosing the joy that He gives provides strength for weary souls in need.
My new December to-do list: to count my blessings each day as they happen and trace His fingerprints of grace upon my day to day – to enjoy moments of rest in His presence – to soak up joy by the buckets-full – to rely on His strength to be jolly.
Fa – la la la la – la – la – la – la.
Let the merry making begin!
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