Last week we talked about Advent and the importance of focusing our minds on the true meaning of the Christmas season. This week, we’ll discuss the importance of being present and how the word “present” can have a double meaning this time of year.
Today’s verse is from 1 Chronicles 16:11
Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!
While some of us have year-end deadlines, for many of us, our calendars start to open up a little this time of year – at least for a few days around Christmas and New Year’s Day. And when we experience some free time on our calendar around Christmas, we have two options – 1) fill it up with the busy-ness of the season or 2) slow down and live in the moment.
When we say “live in the moment” what does that mean? Do we need to start a meditation practice? Or, like Henry David Thoreau, head out to spend some time in the woods by ourselves? Maybe…..but for those of us with loved ones, a better answer might be to just BE with them. Maybe we should just hang out with our loved ones and friends this time of year with absolutely nothing to accomplish other than to offer them the gift of our presence. This is an intentional act but one with no expectations or goals.
So when you think about gift giving this time of year, consider the idea that quality-time (and quantity-time) spent with your loved ones may be the greatest gift you can offer. Our presence may be best Christmas present of all.
Questions:
- Is it difficult for you to live in the moment and simply be present?
- What challenges challenge our ability to let our minds settle?
- Do you have any good stories about taking the time to be present and how that worked out?
- What are the potential negative consequences of living life somewhere other than the present?
- What advice would you give someone who is struggle to “live in the moment”?
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