December 18, 2024
by Pastor Chuck SwindollScriptures: Psalm 46:10
A FEW DECEMBERS AGO, I saw something that I won't soon forget. The bumper sticker on the back of the car in front of me caught my eye. It made me think. And it even aroused some guilt.
A FEW DECEMBERS AGO, I saw something that I won't soon forget. The bumper
sticker on the back of the car in front of me caught my eye. It made me
think. And it even aroused some guilt.
I was on the freeway as the car was pulling off. Like many December days,
my day so far had been full, and it was far from over. Stuffed in my pocket
was a shopping list, most of the items not yet purchased. A little panic
rushed over the back roads of my mind as I pondered all the things yet to
be bought in those few days left before Christmas. The guy ahead of me
didn't seem to be in much of a hurry, which irritated me a bit, but it told
me that his sign was for real. He practiced what he preached. I began to
study the words in my head. They started making better sense. His bumper
sticker read,
I Brake for Christmas
Easing up on the accelerator and releasing my frown, I began to calm down
my inner motor of racing thoughts. I slowed down and asked myself questions
like: Why the hurry? What's the rush? Could this explain the reason you've
been unable to enjoy the spirit of the season?
A verse from the Psalms drifted into my mind like the ringing of a distant
bell on a clear morning.
Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will
be honored throughout the world.
PSALM 46:10
God will be honored throughout the world whether or not we slow down this
Christmas, but we will enjoy the holiday more if we take the time to
remember the reason why we're celebrating. C'mon, slow down. Be still. This
year . . . let's you and me give Christmas a brake.