5-Day Devotional - Day One

A Storybook Christmas: Part Five Shannon Haltom Day 1: When Christmas Becomes a Chore Devotional The twinkling lights feel dim, the carols sound hollow, and gift-giving feels more like obligation than celebration. Sound familiar? When the magic of Christmas fades into routine, we've lost sight of what the season truly represents. Christmas isn't about perfect decorations or flawless family gatherings. It's about the Prince of Peace entering our chaotic world to bring restoration. Many of us approach Christmas carrying heavy emotional backpacks filled with stress, expectations, and unresolved hurts. We're so focused on creating the perfect holiday experience that we miss the profound truth: Jesus came to give us rest. The Christ child didn't arrive with a to-do list, but with an invitation to find peace in His presence. This Christmas, what if we shifted our focus from doing to being? Instead of adding more activities to our calendar, what if we created space to simply receive the gift of His peace? The same Jesus who calmed storms can calm the chaos in our hearts. When we remember that Christmas is about God's love overcoming our brokenness, the season transforms from a chore into a celebration of hope. Bible Verse “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over His kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” –Isaiah 9:6-7 Reflection Question What burdens or expectations are you carrying this season that are stealing your joy? How might surrendering them to the Prince of Peace change your experience? Quote “When Christmas becomes a chore, you've lost your focus.” Prayer Lord Jesus, forgive me for making Christmas about my performance instead of Your presence. Help me release the burdens I'm carrying and rediscover the wonder of Your love. Let this season be about receiving Your peace. In Jesus’s name, amen.