Home for the Holidays 2023
Embracing the Spirit of the Season Through God's Eyes
I have had the great privilege of saying the invocation for the opening ceremonies of the The Folds of Honor Tournament, held at the prestigious Champions Golf Club. This is more than a golf tournament, it is a heartfelt tribute to the families of fallen or disabled military personnel.
The tournament opens with a breathtaking display by the Navy Seals Skydiving Team. As they drop onto the driving range, they mark the start of a solemn memorial ceremony. This includes the poignant playing of Taps, the reading of names, and the national anthem, creating a moment of deep reflection and honor.
The iPhone's cinematic mode brings a unique perspective to the event. By focusing on the closest or furthest points, it captures the essence of the skydive. The focal point shifts from the flag to the skydiver, offering two different perspectives in one take. This technological marvel parallels our own shifting perspectives in life.
Our Limited Perspective
Our human perspective is inherently limited. We often focus on one aspect of a situation, usually centered around 'me, myself, and I'. However, life is more than just our singular view. It's a tapestry of multiple perspectives, each valid in its own right.
God’s Unlimited Perspective
In contrast to our limited view, God sees everything from all perspectives. He understands how each conversation, challenge, life experience, and event fits into His grand plan. This divine perspective is crucial, especially as we approach the holiday season.
The Holiday Season: A Time of Mixed Emotions
The holiday season, while a time of joy and love, can also bring fatigue, stress, irritability, and even mental health challenges. The American Psychological Association notes that this period can be a mix of emotions, often heightened by the "Trifecta" of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.
Our holiday experiences often depend on our expectations and perspectives. If we focus solely on our ideals, we might set ourselves up for disappointment. Instead, embracing a godly perspective can help us truly savor the season.
Wisdom in God’s Purpose
Proverbs 19:20-21 encourages us to seek wisdom and understand that while we make plans, it's the Lord’s purpose that will prevail. This is a powerful reminder to align our perspectives with God’s purposes, especially during the holidays.
Embracing God’s Perspective in the Holiday Season
The holiday season should not just be about surviving but thriving in the spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, are key to grounding our perspectives in God's purposes.
Practical Tips for a Spirit-Led Holiday Season
Conclusion: Aligning with God’s Purpose
As we gather for Thanksgiving and progress through the holiday season, let's remember to align our perspectives with God's purposes. May our celebrations, conversations, and relationships be guided by His wisdom and the fruits of the Spirit. Let's not just seek to fulfill our plans but to embrace the Lord's purpose in every aspect of our lives.
I have had the great privilege of saying the invocation for the opening ceremonies of the The Folds of Honor Tournament, held at the prestigious Champions Golf Club. This is more than a golf tournament, it is a heartfelt tribute to the families of fallen or disabled military personnel.
The tournament opens with a breathtaking display by the Navy Seals Skydiving Team. As they drop onto the driving range, they mark the start of a solemn memorial ceremony. This includes the poignant playing of Taps, the reading of names, and the national anthem, creating a moment of deep reflection and honor.
The iPhone's cinematic mode brings a unique perspective to the event. By focusing on the closest or furthest points, it captures the essence of the skydive. The focal point shifts from the flag to the skydiver, offering two different perspectives in one take. This technological marvel parallels our own shifting perspectives in life.
Our Limited Perspective
Our human perspective is inherently limited. We often focus on one aspect of a situation, usually centered around 'me, myself, and I'. However, life is more than just our singular view. It's a tapestry of multiple perspectives, each valid in its own right.
God’s Unlimited Perspective
In contrast to our limited view, God sees everything from all perspectives. He understands how each conversation, challenge, life experience, and event fits into His grand plan. This divine perspective is crucial, especially as we approach the holiday season.
The Holiday Season: A Time of Mixed Emotions
The holiday season, while a time of joy and love, can also bring fatigue, stress, irritability, and even mental health challenges. The American Psychological Association notes that this period can be a mix of emotions, often heightened by the "Trifecta" of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.
Our holiday experiences often depend on our expectations and perspectives. If we focus solely on our ideals, we might set ourselves up for disappointment. Instead, embracing a godly perspective can help us truly savor the season.
Wisdom in God’s Purpose
Proverbs 19:20-21 encourages us to seek wisdom and understand that while we make plans, it's the Lord’s purpose that will prevail. This is a powerful reminder to align our perspectives with God’s purposes, especially during the holidays.
Embracing God’s Perspective in the Holiday Season
The holiday season should not just be about surviving but thriving in the spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23, are key to grounding our perspectives in God's purposes.
Practical Tips for a Spirit-Led Holiday Season
- Set Boundaries
- Find Space for Feelings
- Make a Plan
Conclusion: Aligning with God’s Purpose
As we gather for Thanksgiving and progress through the holiday season, let's remember to align our perspectives with God's purposes. May our celebrations, conversations, and relationships be guided by His wisdom and the fruits of the Spirit. Let's not just seek to fulfill our plans but to embrace the Lord's purpose in every aspect of our lives.
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