The GiftSample

Embrace a Pace of Wonder

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but sometimes the to-do list feels endless, the preparation seems daunting, and the holidays can have a way of reminding us of our deepest disappointments.

But what if we chose to pause the busyness of the season and start discovering a deeper joy? What if we slowed down to embrace a pace of wonder? 

We can. You can. But to experience the most wonderful time of the year, we’ve got to start making it the most worshipful time of the year. Because wonder and worship go hand in hand. 

It may not be easy. Maybe it’s been a difficult year. Maybe you’re experiencing the loss of a loved one, the loss of a dream, or the loss of what you thought your life would look like. Maybe you’re in a season of waiting. But your past experiences don’t have to dictate your future expectations. 

When we worship, we’re expressing awe at someone or something. At this time of year, we all have reason to worship—and it’s not tied to our current circumstances. We have reason to worship because of the gift we have received through Jesus.

Just look at what happens when some wise men hear about the birth of Jesus: 

And when they [the wise men] saw the star, they were so ecstatic that they shouted and celebrated with unrestrained joy. When they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary, his mother, they were overcome. Falling to the ground at his feet they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure boxes full of gifts and presented him with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 TPT

For hundreds of years, people had been waiting. Waiting on God to fulfill His promise to send our Savior. And Christmas is one of the best reminders that God keeps His promises. He sent us Jesus as the ultimate gift to show that God wants to be with us.  

The wise men celebrated with unrestrained joy. They were overcome. They fell to their knees and did the only thing you can do when faced with that much wonder—worshiped.

This Christmas, instead of focusing on what you need to do, worship God for what He has done for you. Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on God’s love. 

Slow down to a pace of wonder by worshiping God and thanking Him for the gift of Jesus. Over the next few days, we’ll talk more about the wise men, the gifts they gave Jesus, and how those gifts can lead us into a place of worship. We’ll talk about practical ways to reclaim the joy of Christmas, and together we’ll ask God to restore our sense of wonder. 

Pray: God, slow me down to a pace of wonder this Christmas. Remind me who You are, and help me to worship You with joy. Help me stop focusing on my to-do list and start focusing on the gift of Jesus, Your Son. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

Practice: How might you increase your sense of wonder this Christmas? What are some ways you can worship your way through the season?