Christmas, being rushed, tired out and more money than month seem to go together for many of us, and we definitely don’t want it that way. Our minds picture time and money for everything we want and need to do during this period. However, we often simply face the fact that it is and hope for more rest and calm in January. Do you think that could be changed? At least, to some extent? Would you like for it to be?

Perhaps there is a way that we can eliminate some of the problem. The first way is to not worry about what has to be done tomorrow and concentrate on what has to be done today. Of course, we do plan ahead for what is needed, but don’t take on tomorrow’s burdens today. A friend and I were talking about how the events of the next day would be so tiring because we had much to do to get ready for a meeting which would last a long time, after which we’d go out to eat. We decided not to say those negative things and so burden ourselves with that which was not positive. We both believed in the benefits that would arrive from the meeting and were whole-heartedly for it. Then we made the choice not to go eat afterwards because it takes a long time when you have a large group of people. See how simple that was?

Being tired and having more to do than we really can often makes us cranky too, especially if we have to wait in long lines at the store. Can you relate? Yes, we’d like the business to be almost empty, but so would everyone else. Instead of griping about waiting, how about simply smiling at the person in front of or behind you and wish them a merry Christmas. Or, better yet, ask them if they know Jesus, the reason we celebrate Christmas.

A great way we can get rid of the overwhelming burden of too much to do at Christmas, though, is to simply ask our Father for help and do what He instructs us. Sometimes we just take on more than we need to, and that is not wisdom. We require God’s anointing for the things we do. Let me give you an example of this: A friend told of having to buy materials to make table decorations for a party and had prayed that she would be able to find the correct materials that she needed. She went to a craft store and behold, all the things to be bought were almost lined up next to each other on counters across from each other. And the correct number of supplies were available for each component of the decorations for all the tables. It was a God-thing, she exclaimed. Indeed because how often might you look for something and need eight and only six were available?

Long ago I wrote a poem titled The Anointing, which I think is especially appropriate during the Christmas season. We know how certain people were anointed in the Old Testament, but is that something for today? If so, is it something for you and me? Let’s stop and see.

Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary* defines anointing this way: Anointing in the New Testament also refers to the anointing of the Holy Spirit, which brings understanding (see 1 John 2:20, 27). This anointing is not only for kings, priests, and prophets; it is for everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ. The anointing occurs physically with a substance such as oil, myrrh, or balsam. But this is also a spiritual anointing, as the Holy Spirit anoints a person’s heart and mind with the love and truth of God.

If we have God’s anointing on the everyday things we do, we’ll be able to be more focused on Jesus, Who is the reason for the season. Don’t be hesitant to ask your Father to anoint you for the things you need to do. He loves and cares about all your chores and work as well as your pleasures because He cares about the whole you, not simply the spiritual part. First Corinthians 10:31 says, So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Take a moment and consider the words of this poem and see if they might help you in the next few weeks.

The Anointing

If I were preaching or teaching or Witnessing to the lost, I’d say I needed the anointing of the Lord So that His words would be said In the power of His Spirit and might.

But if I live my daily life, At home or work or play, I may not think I need God’s anointing. For who am I to need His power In the mundane things I do?

But who am I, indeed, to need His power, Whether at home or work or play? How many lives view mine and are touched By the sermons and the teachings I unknowingly live today?

Yes, Lord God, anoint me indeed With the power of your Holy Spirit, For you alone know the ones who are touched By the strength of my faith, By the words of my testimony.

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*         Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary; copyright 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers; from PC Study Bible.