No Striving Necessary

No Striving Necessary

No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

“Why does this season fall disproportionately on women?” Kendra’s question ended on a sigh. Christmas seems to carry a universally heavier than normal burden on our girlfriends—women who quietly speak of feeling overwhelmed as they strive to make this season appear both magical and effortless despite the chaos often swirling just below the surface. I recognized the truth in her question as I reflected on the many conversations I’ve had with girlfriends this past month.

Overwhelmed and exhausted are the themes I hear as the women I love navigate hard relationships, mourn the loss of loved ones, and strive to get all the details perfect for Christmas morning. It is an emotional and physical load that is often unavoidable, even as we look for ways to balance it better every year.

That is not what Jesus has for you, for me, for all of us today. Our American culture has made Christmas far more complicated than it was ever meant to be, and we get inadvertently caught up in the vortex of cultural and familial expectations.

In the midst of all the magic-making, let’s pause for a lingering moment to bask in the truth of today: God loves you, loves all of us so much that he sent his only beloved Son to redeem us. Jesus is a priceless gift with no strings attached, a Savior who offers a path back to God despite sin and our unworthiness. There is no striving, no to-do list, no preconditions, just a humble acceptance of his freely offered salvation.

You are beloved. There is nothing you can do (or fail to do), no place you can go that will separate you from the love of Christ. In a season that can feel chaotic and hard, Jesus’ unconditional, inextinguishable, unending love is a balm for our weary souls.

— Julie

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Spend a few quiet moments with your Savior this Christmas.