The Secret to a Fulfilled Holiday
During our most favorite holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas, we experience a wide range of experiences. It is a time of family reunions, gratitude, gift giving, vacations, and other wonderful experiences. In contrast, we seem to struggle with wanting more! More food, more toys, and more discount promotional sales! As one friend of mine wrote: “Each promotional sale is designed to get us to believe one basic message: that our lives lack something right now, and to experience life more fully, we should buy now! While it’s always nice to save money, what is more important is that we are saved from an ongoing feeling that something is lacking in life.” (1)
The Bible introduces us to the concept of contentment. The Oxford dictionary defines being content as “a state of peaceful happiness.” Jesus invites us into a relationship with Him that brings true contentment. “I (Jesus) have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10). No matter what we’re going through, whether exciting or challenging, contentment based on our relationship with Jesus is always available.
The apostle Paul shares his experience of contentment based on His friendship with God: “For I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” (Philippians 4:11-12)
May you enjoy abundant life this holiday season!
Rick Christman, MPH
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