Welcome to this Abide meditation. I'm Russ Jones, Abide's executive producer. In our home,

along with reading the biblical Christmas narrative, it's a tradition to read a cup of Christmas tea,

written by Minnesota author Tom Hess and illustrated by Warren Hanson.

A man receives an imitation from his elderly, ailing aunt, and, well, he just doesn't want to go.

It's in the midst of the Christmas rush, and who needs the aggravation, right?

The depression, the strain.

Driven by guilt, he visits her anyway, and discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

With that in mind, wherever you are, just relax. Calm yourself from the rush of the season to get everything right.

Breathe in deeply.

Take in God's joy.

Now, Now exhale the tension that might get in the way of truly enjoying God's amazing gift of eternal life. Push away all the distractions, and yes, they will come.

The evil one doesn't want you to focus on the Lord.

Push away those distractions now.

Go to the Lord push away those distractions now go to the Lord Job chapter 33 verse 4 says the Spirit of God has me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.

Breathe in one more time, the breath of God Almighty.

Let's pray.

Father, what an honor it is to have a front row seat to the greatest story in the universe.

Don't let us miss you this Christmas season, and help me to simplify my activities and traditions

so I can focus my celebration on your birth.

Thank you for being the Prince of Peace,

and I ask you for that supernatural peace to reign in my heart.

Thank you for the simple but life-changing message of your love for us.

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