Christmas Hangover

Nope. I’m not talking about that kind of hangover. I’m referring to that feeling that you get after you spend over 2 months preparing for Christmas Day only to find yourself on December 27th asking the question, “Is it over already? What now?” It is that void you find in your spirit that screams (no matter how you feel) that you are not satisified just yet.

Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love the Christmas season. I dig all of the presents, the cold weather, the snow, the caramel brûlée lattes, the trees, and the music. It’s a lot of fun to me. But what I found myself doing, especially the past few years, is focusing all of my attention on all of these shadows instead of on the One who is casting those shadows. I’ve gotten myself lost in these shadows too many times. And recently, this has led me to an act of repentance in my own life. By repenting and re-focusing my heart and spirit on Jesus, that has helped me to enjoy all the fun with the Christmas season while never getting lost in the shadows.

I know in ministry, especially, the shadows can be overwhelming, especially during the Christmas season. As a constant reminder to myself, have fun & enjoy the shadows, but know where the shadows come from. Know the One who is casting them. This holds true not only during Christmas, but all throughout the year!

Andy Dukes serves as a Camp Specialist and works closely with our T&E Productions team. Dukes also serves on the VBS Preview & Kids Ministry Conference event teams. Keep up with Dukes and his interests on Twitter.