‘Tis the season.
I believe most of us are ready to get out the Christmas decorations. Am I right? We could all use that extra joy a little earlier this year. But looking ahead to this holiday season, we know it will not look like those before it.
Recently, I’ve been diving into the book of Philippians and have had these verses cling to me like a two year old who does not want to let go of his mom:
Philippians 2:3-5
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.
I felt God showing me the value of loving others more than myself. Not the first time this happens but always a timely reminder. Loving others well means being a student of them, and this holiday season I’m taking that to heart. It’s not all about me, not about my wants, but about appreciating those nearest to me who had to put up with me during all the ups and downs this year.
Specifically the words in verse 5 “In your relationships”, brings pictures of my loved ones to mind; those that are my circle, my tribe. To phrase that appropriately for this year, the people I don’t have to wear a mask around because we are together.
I think it’s safe to say that those who are near to us are ‘our people.’ What does it look like for you to be a student of your people? -To learn what they like and what their love language might be.
What would it look like to:
- Buy someone you see every day their favorite candy bar.
- Bake someone their favorite cake for no reason.
- Plan a “girls afternoon” or “date night” in your home for someone.
- Maybe send some cookies or a card to someone who has a birthday this holiday season that you won’t see.
Doing the little things to love someone goes a long way. This year is going to look different, but I think the social distancing challenges don’t have to hold us back from loving one another intentionally. God has called us to love each other with the same love He has for us.
Have you ever noticed how intentional God is? Does He place a beautiful sunset in front of you? Does that song you really needed to hear come on the radio, at just the right time?
Friend, as Jesus calls us to love him and love others, (Matt 22:38-39) let us do it fiercely as we end this year! Take note of those closest to you: surprise them, encourage them, pray life-giving words over them, and above all, love them well.
