The leaves are rapidly falling off the trees, the flowers in our front yard have gone dormant, and it's now completely dark outside by the time my family sits down for dinner. The shift from October to November signals a shift in mindset for my family--it's time for the holidays!

The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is usually marked by a whirlwind of activity that has me squeezing every last inch of space from my calendar. There's Christmas parties, extra shopping, presents to wrap, and those special once-a-year family traditions. I want to cram as much warmth and enjoyment into the holiday season as possible. But by the middle of December, instead of feeling warm, fuzzy, and full of holiday cheer, I feel exhausted and "grinchy."

Before we fully dive into the chaos of the holiday season, I'm reminded of Jesus' words to Martha--another woman who found herself overwhelmed by busyness. If you're unfamiliar with the story, Jesus and His disciples had come to visit Martha and her sister Mary at their home in Bethany. While Martha bustled around the house trying to make sure everyone was comfortable and fed, Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened to His words. Overcome, Martha finally said to Jesus:

" 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to serve alone? So, tell her to give me a hand.' The Lord answered her, 'Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken from her.'" (Luke 10:4042, CSB)

Have you ever thought about the word "holiday"? It comes from the Old English word haligdaeg which literally translates to "holy day." During the busyness of the holiday season, do you find time to reflect on the holiness of what we are celebrating? Do you carve out enough space to feel the weight of what God has done for us? Before the pressures of the holiday season kicks into gear, take a moment to reflect on this awesome truth: The God of the universe chose to leave His throne in Heaven to dwell with sinful, mortal man. he healed our infirmities, prayed over us, ate with us, and wept for us. He lived a sinless life in order to take our sin on His shoulders. He took our punishment, He took our shame, and through His death and resurrection He defeated death once and for all. Some of my favorite family traditions happen around Christmas time, but this Christmas, before I start attempting to play Tetris with my schedule, I'll remember Jesus' words to Martha: "only one thing is necessary."

"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don't let your heart be troubled or fearful." (John 14:27, CSB)