In the midst of the chaos of the holidays, whether it is crowded shops or fun Christmas parties, we can get caught up and stressed out when we should be experiencing joy. 
After Thanksgiving I put up my tree, get the lights and decorations up, and my favorite tradition is when my kids put the star on the top. It’s easy to get swept away into the flow of the busy Christmas season with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday. Will I find the right gifts for my family? Will everything come together like I hope for Christmas day? We can get caught up in the chaos — but what I have learned to do is to keep Jesus the reason for the season.
 In order for me to really enjoy the holidays I must pull back and remember all the good that God has done for me in the year and understand it’s about the birth of Christ.
 During this advent season we must remember that Jesus came to save, forgive, and restore. This type of remembrance should bring joy to our holiday season. I would encourage all of us to take time and remember how good God has been this year. 
As we close in on the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and celebrate with family and friends, let us find an advent Bible study, read scriptures, pray and encourage one another, because we know that Jesus is the same yesterday today and forever.