Living In The Present

HELLO FRIENDS,

I love Christmas! I’ve always loved everything about it— the decorations, the songs, the snow. I even love the occasional peppermint mocha, and yes, I tear up at those sappy holiday commercials. But as the years roll by, I notice that Christmas time begins sooner and sooner. It’s not the worst thing, but I think it’s a side effect of an issue that we all collectively struggle with, and that struggle is living in the present.

I’ll speak for myself in admitting that I’m not the best at this. I find myself racking up hours of screen time, comparing myself to the posts I see on social media, online shopping, and doomscrolling through Youtube. Even in silence, my mind tends to be 100 different places. But when I eliminate those distractions and try to exist in the now, I notice how rushed I feel. Always pressing the gas and planning ahead. I want to break free of this cycle, but it’s not easy.

Matthew 11:28-30 says this: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light.” 

Rest with the Lord. Take time away from the noise and quietly notice how beautifully the present moment unfolds. Trade the heavy burden of BUSY for the light yoke of Jesus— what you will find in return is not more to accomplish but a deep stillness. I find that a still mind is quicker to find contentment in the present moment; it cherishes life as it is rather than rushing around to get to the next thing.

Ellie Fehlen
Children's Pastor

 PS - I still love Christmas, but maybe this year I won’t start decorating until after Thanksgiving.