Prioritizing Our List

We grew up believing that if we decided what we wanted and made a list for Santa, that it’s possible that he might bring what’s on the list. There were so many toys, books, and clothes that we could imagine ourselves enjoying, while some of our friends were getting or already had them. Thumbing through catalogs, walking by and through stores and talking to our friends, we could discover many ideas on what we would like. There were times when we learned that we “couldn’t get everything we wanted” and needed to be sensitive to the worldwide demands on Santa. So, we had to start limiting our choices and deciding what few things he might actually bring us or our parents would give us. The time of discovery to find out what we wanted for Christmas also opened doors to considering things we might not have even thought about before or didn’t even know that we wanted or needed. It was sometimes difficult to focus what we truly wanted or was most important to us.   

As an adult, we’re faced with deciding what is most important to us as well. Now, we not only have all of the previous ways that can attract us to what we think will be fun, but also social media and constant targeted electronic advertising. Our focus is pulled in many directions In scripture, Jesus tells us in Matthew 22:37 that our focus should be to “Love the Lord with all of our heart, all of our soul and all of our mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” He knew that life’s demands and our human tendencies will allow us to lose our focus on God’s vision for our lives, which comes through His power, mercy and strength. 

May God help us to use His priorities as we come up with our grown-up Christmas list this year.  

Reflect and Respond

• How do you decide what's a priority for you?
• What is your favorite love language and why? (acts of service, gifts, physical touch, quality time, words of affirmation...or something else!)
• How can you use your favorite love language to show love to God? Be creative and try it today!