Written by Shawna Koller

A few weeks ago I headed south to spend some time with and visit my Dad. I had such a great time and loved being able to spend a long weekend with him, especially since it had been a year and a half since i last saw him at my sister’s high school graduation.

Growing up, I would see my dad between eight and ten weeks a year, as I was here in Colorado and he, my step-mom, and sisters were out east. As a little girl I absolutely loved seeing my family out east, and naturally I also think I enjoyed seeing what gifts I might get.

Somewhere along the way I began to care less and less about the possibility of getting stuff, and way more about the time I’d spend with my family.

The time I was able to spend with my Dad a few weeks ago was priceless.  When I got home, I was filled with so much joy. I would venture to say that I had more joy after I spent quality time with my Dad than I would’ve had after any gift I might have received.

Now that the Christmas season is officially in full swing, this time of year so often becomes more about what we’re going to buy and receive, and our days can become so full of stress and disappointment.

But what if this year was different? What if instead of focusing so much tim eon the gifts and the stuff, we were thankful for what we have already been blessed with? What if we are determined to spend more time with the One who the season is really celebrating, than time in the stores?

In light of the Christmas season, I ask you, when was the last time you sat down and spent some time with Jesus, your Heavenly Father?

In the same way I felt so much joy after spending time with my Dad and sharing about my life with him, I believe that a deeper and lasting joy will be found in the time you spend with Jesus, our Heavenly Father, and sharing your life with Him.

May your heart desire more time with the One who this season is truly about than any material gifts, and may you take the time to spend with your Heavenly Father – it is there that you will find the greatest joy.