another person or family, we can diminish the internal stress that we
place upon ourselves. We will find that our joy is increased by doing
only that which is really important for our family and others.
Remember, this season is to celebrate all that is holy. As
Christians, we do not need to be stoic, rejecting pleasure in life.
To the contrary, God created our lives to be a blessing and to enjoy.
As a minister, my children are raised to love God above all else, but
they are also taught to embrace life -- even the magic of holiday
decorations and music.
I want them to understand that life is not just about them, but
others, and that we are to model Christ's attributes in serving and
blessing those around us. In this, we show Christ in our lives -- the
most important Christmas gift of all.
Happy Holidays! I pray you are able to make the time to truly take
pleasure in them and to spread that joy to another.
* The Rev. KIMBERLIE ZAKARIAN's column runs alternating Fridays.
Reach her by e-mail at holyhouse9@aol.com or by mail at Holy House
Ministries c/o the Rev. Kimberlie Zakarian, 9641 Tujunga Canyon Blvd., Tujunga, CA 91042.
