We are taking some time off this year between Christmas and New Years and I started to think about time off, time away, down time, time lost, time given, but one memory that stands out is when I have given my kid’s a “time out”. This provided them a window of opportunity to go to their rooms and cool off. To think about an action that they have done and to consider, "what could I have done better?" or maybe "I shouldn't have done that." This was also for my benefit; a break from the conflict so I wouldn't over discipline (my kids might debate this part of my thought) and a stop to the action so they wouldn’t do any more damage. More than anything it was a chance to turn it around, to go from bad to good.
I have found that God provides me the same window of opportunity over and over; yes, He has put me in a “time out” many times and still does. But in addition, over the years I have learned to put myself on a “time out”. I find that during the Christmas season it is especially beneficial to find a window of time for one of these self imposed moments. I am not talking about hiding in your room to avoid the family during Christmas, but to take a spiritual "time out" somewhere in the season. To stop and consider my life in the same way I would ask my kids to consider theirs. Thinking about my actions that I should or should not have done, to choose being better at life and to appreciate the efforts that others have made on my behalf whether I deserved them or not. To see God’s gift to me, by giving me another opportunity in life for a new day and a chance to “turn it around”.
It always feels good to come out of that experience with a heart of healing and a commitment to new things, to embrace others with the same spirit that has just been renewed in me. Praying for you and your family this year that you would experience the work of Christ in your life as if you have just come out of a “time out”, willing to be renewed and reconciled in every area of your life that you possibly can be. After all, the greatest gift that has been given to you is the same gift you can give someone else, a chance to turn it around for good!
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