I feel more prepared for Christmas than I have in years past. My house is decorated both inside and out.  As I read my Advent devotional this morning, I finally get that I need the time before Christmas to prepare my heart for God.

Normally, I spend the month of December rushing around, trying to decorate, buy gifts, plus go to parties. I stress and forget why I am celebrating. Isaiah 40:3 is, “Listen! It’s the voice of someone shouting, ‘Clear the way through the wilderness for the Lord!  Make a straight highway through the wasteland for our God!’” (Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 2915). 

I need to clear through the “wilderness” of holiday chores and parties to seek God. I can have extravagant decorations, bake the richest desserts, and buy thoughtful gifts. This work is all for nothing if I do it without preparing my heart for God. This year, I center my celebration around Christ. He is the reason for the season.