Christmas is less than one week away, and personally, I’ve been feeling like the season has been cut short. Maybe its like this every year, but it felt like Christmas snuck up on me way too quickly. When I think about Christmas coming, I’m more anxious about how little time I have left, and less joyful about the holiday and the coming of the King.

When I feel this way, I am always comforted to remember that on the very first Christmas, nobody was ready. Not a single human knew He was coming that night, and He came anyway. He came in the dark, in the quiet, with just a couple people around, while heaven rejoiced. Jesus was born to bring us hope and peace and joy and love, and absolutely no preparation was needed.

Sure, its nice to have all the cards sent, shopping done, gifts wrapped and dishes prepared ahead of time. But I think what’s truly important this season is to reflect and remember the gift we have been given. To rejoice and praise and give thanks for the very best gift that we could have never earned or deserve, but were given freely. To celebrate the “good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10) with family and friends. To know that we don’t have to do a single thing to receive this gift.

I pray that each of you keeps this in mind for a moment or two this Christmas. As you make your preparations, meet with family or friends, attend events, and wrap your gifts, keep joy in your hearts, because He is our joy.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Luke 2:8-14