Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas

Transcript

WEBVTT

00:00:01.481 --> 00:00:03.145
Coming up on Renewed Mindsets.

00:00:03.145 --> 00:00:10.529
As we approach Christmas Day, let's take a moment to prepare our hearts for the true meaning of this celebration.

00:00:10.529 --> 00:00:20.530
In today's episode, we'll explore how to embrace the spirit of Christmas by focusing on love, generosity and the profound gift of Jesus Christ.

00:00:20.530 --> 00:00:22.525
Let's go, boys.

00:00:22.525 --> 00:00:33.460
Christ, let's go boys.

00:00:33.460 --> 00:00:36.950
Hey, welcome to Renewed Mindsets, where we study the basics of the faith through the lens of our middle-aged experiences.

00:00:36.950 --> 00:00:37.130
I'm Rick.

00:00:37.130 --> 00:00:47.792
Welcome to the show where I help you, gen Xers and Millennials, navigate spiritually through a world that looks nothing like we expected back when cars were square and mullets were totally awesome.

00:00:47.792 --> 00:00:49.905
I am so glad you're here.

00:00:49.905 --> 00:00:54.545
Welcome ho-ho-home.

00:00:54.545 --> 00:00:56.771
Or back to Renewed Mindsets.

00:00:56.771 --> 00:01:02.133
I'm Rick, and today I'm joined by the always insightful Lauren.

00:01:03.020 --> 00:01:04.040
Hey everyone, so glad to be here On today's episode.

00:01:04.040 --> 00:01:06.283
It's a special one because we're talking about something we all need, joined by the always insightful Lauren.

00:01:06.283 --> 00:01:07.304
Hey, everyone, so glad to be here On today's episode.

00:01:07.304 --> 00:01:12.507
It's a special one because we're talking about something we all need to do this time of year prepare our hearts for Christmas.

00:01:12.828 --> 00:01:13.849
That's right, lauren.

00:01:13.849 --> 00:01:32.742
It's so easy to get caught up in all the busyness of the season shopping and decorating and parties A lot of times we forget what it's really about Christmas is a celebration of the most incredible event in history the birth of Jesus Christ.

00:01:32.763 --> 00:01:37.048
Yeah, and honestly preparing our hearts isn't just about remembering the story of his birth.

00:01:37.048 --> 00:01:42.034
It's about letting the very reality of who he is and why he came transform us.

00:01:42.034 --> 00:01:49.272
So today we're going to explore some practical and spiritual ways to focus our hearts on Christ this Christmas.

00:01:49.311 --> 00:01:56.109
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or distracted, or just looking for a fresh perspective, this episode is for you.

00:01:56.109 --> 00:01:57.332
Let's dive in.

00:01:58.599 --> 00:02:00.926
Section one why we need to prepare our hearts.

00:02:01.647 --> 00:02:04.194
Okay, let's start with a question.

00:02:04.194 --> 00:02:07.141
Why do we need to prepare our hearts for Christmas?

00:02:07.141 --> 00:02:09.908
Lauren, what comes to mind for you?

00:02:11.492 --> 00:02:13.478
Well, I think it's about focus.

00:02:13.478 --> 00:02:18.068
The world has turned Christmas into a season of materialism and busyness.

00:02:18.068 --> 00:02:23.044
If we're not intentional, we can miss the spiritual significance of what we're celebrating.

00:02:23.906 --> 00:02:28.813
Yeah, exactly, christmas is about God's incredible gift of salvation through Jesus.

00:02:28.813 --> 00:02:36.496
But if we're more focused on finding the perfect gift for someone or planning the perfect party, we're missing the point.

00:02:37.663 --> 00:02:43.109
And it's not about just avoiding distractions, it's about making room for Christ in our lives.

00:02:43.109 --> 00:02:46.883
Remember in Luke 2 when Mary and Joseph couldn't find room at the inn.

00:02:46.883 --> 00:02:52.888
I think that's pretty symbolic of what happens in our hearts when we're too busy or preoccupied to welcome Jesus.

00:02:53.169 --> 00:02:55.000
Now, that is a powerful image, lauren.

00:02:55.000 --> 00:03:02.081
God gave us the greatest gift His Son and it's up to us to receive that gift with gratitude and reverence.

00:03:02.081 --> 00:03:09.133
Preparing our hearts means setting aside the noise of the season to focus on the miracle of his coming.

00:03:10.354 --> 00:03:10.775
Exactly.

00:03:10.775 --> 00:03:17.329
And let's not forget, christmas isn't just about looking back to his birth, it's also about looking forward to his return.

00:03:17.329 --> 00:03:23.125
Preparing our hearts for Christmas is a reminder that we're called to live in anticipation of his second coming.

00:03:23.425 --> 00:03:24.188
Amen to that.

00:03:24.188 --> 00:03:26.105
But here's the challenge.

00:03:26.105 --> 00:03:30.651
We live in a culture that celebrates everything but Christ at Christmas.

00:03:30.651 --> 00:03:38.691
We're bombarded with advertisements and social obligations, cultural traditions that can drown out the true meaning of the season.

00:03:39.822 --> 00:03:44.150
That's very true, rick, and I think that's why preparing our hearts is so important.

00:03:44.150 --> 00:03:50.092
It's about intentionally choosing to celebrate in a way that honors God and keeps our focus on Him.

00:03:50.979 --> 00:03:53.609
And let's remember this isn't just a seasonal practice.

00:03:53.609 --> 00:03:57.550
Preparing our hearts for Christ should be a daily commitment.

00:03:57.550 --> 00:04:04.753
Christmas is a unique opportunity to reset and refocus and remind ourselves of what truly matters.

00:04:05.659 --> 00:04:06.262
Section 2.

00:04:06.262 --> 00:04:08.650
Reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.

00:04:09.460 --> 00:04:15.161
One of the most important ways to prepare our hearts is by reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.

00:04:15.161 --> 00:04:20.033
Now, Lauren, what helps you stay focused on Christ during this season?

00:04:21.081 --> 00:04:23.524
For me, I would say it's spending time in Scripture.

00:04:23.524 --> 00:04:31.315
Reading passages like Isaiah 9, 6, Luke 2, or John 1 helps me remember the magnitude of what we're celebrating.

00:04:31.315 --> 00:04:33.166
It's not just a story.

00:04:33.166 --> 00:04:35.829
It's the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Savior.

00:04:36.261 --> 00:04:37.706
That's so important.

00:04:37.706 --> 00:04:41.442
I'd encourage everyone listening to set aside time each day to read and meditate on the Word.

00:04:41.442 --> 00:04:43.843
To set aside time each day to read and meditate on the Word.

00:04:43.843 --> 00:04:50.408
Even just a few minutes can help you shift your focus from the chaos of the season to the peace of Christ.

00:04:51.149 --> 00:04:52.670
Yeah, and don't just stop at reading.

00:04:52.670 --> 00:05:03.841
Take time to pray, ask God to help you see Christmas through His eyes, thank Him for the gift of His Son and ask Him to show you how you can honor Him during the season, and he will.

00:05:03.860 --> 00:05:07.851
He'll tell you yeah, another way to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas is through worship.

00:05:07.851 --> 00:05:17.108
Singing Christmas carols like O Holy Night or Hark the Herald Angels Sing, it can be a powerful reminder of the miracle of Christ's birth.

00:05:17.449 --> 00:05:21.329
Absolutely, and worship shifts our focus from ourselves to God.

00:05:21.329 --> 00:05:29.014
Whether it's singing, journaling or simply sitting quietly in his presence, worship is a vital part of preparing our hearts.

00:05:29.980 --> 00:05:33.528
And here's another idea Consider writing a gratitude list.

00:05:33.528 --> 00:05:37.410
Think about all the ways God has blessed you this year and write them down.

00:05:37.410 --> 00:05:43.779
Gratitude opens our hearts to his presence and helps us see the season as a celebration of his goodness.

00:05:44.343 --> 00:05:47.983
I love that, Rick, and it's always good to you know.

00:05:47.983 --> 00:05:56.456
Make a list of every blessing that God has given you and go through exactly what you are thankful to him for.

00:05:56.456 --> 00:06:00.610
And we can't forget the very importance of sharing the story of Christ's birth with others.

00:06:00.610 --> 00:06:11.903
Whether it's reading the nativity story to your kids or talking about Jesus with a friend, or inviting someone to church, Sharing the gospel is a powerful way to keep Christ at the very center of Christmas.

00:06:11.903 --> 00:06:15.692
Yeah, Section three practical steps to prepare our hearts.

00:06:16.199 --> 00:06:16.521
Okay.

00:06:16.521 --> 00:06:22.132
So now that we've talked about why and what to reflect on, let's get practical.

00:06:22.132 --> 00:06:26.430
What are some tangible ways that we can prepare our hearts for Christmas?

00:06:27.641 --> 00:06:31.071
One of the simplest but most powerful things you can do is to just slow down.

00:06:31.071 --> 00:06:38.269
The pace of the season can be pretty overwhelming, but intentionally creating moments of stillness allows us to focus on God.

00:06:38.591 --> 00:06:39.855
That is so true.

00:06:39.855 --> 00:06:45.629
I mean, instead of rushing from one event to the next, carve out some time to be alone with God.

00:06:45.629 --> 00:06:53.132
Maybe that means waking up 10 minutes earlier or taking a break from social media to create space for Him in your life.

00:06:53.800 --> 00:06:56.470
Yeah, and another practical step is to simplify.

00:06:56.470 --> 00:06:59.305
Ask yourself what really matters this Christmas.

00:06:59.305 --> 00:07:05.346
Maybe it's spending quality time with loved ones, serving others or simply reflecting on Christ.

00:07:05.346 --> 00:07:08.600
Let go of the things that don't align with that focus.

00:07:08.620 --> 00:07:10.841
And speaking of serving, what about finding some ways to bless other people?

00:07:10.841 --> 00:07:24.990
And speaking of serving, what about finding some ways to bless other people, Whether it's volunteering or donating to a family in need or simply just reaching out to someone who's lonely, serving others is a powerful way to reflect God's love.

00:07:25.612 --> 00:07:33.958
I think it's also important to be intentional about what we bring into our homes during the season, Like from the decorations we choose to the music we play.

00:07:33.958 --> 00:07:38.949
Everything should point us and our families closer to Christ and not to the world.

00:07:39.329 --> 00:07:48.043
Right, and we're going to talk about that next week and if you could see us, you'd see us both winking at each other like oh, they don't even know what's coming.

00:07:48.444 --> 00:07:48.685
Oh yeah.

00:07:49.067 --> 00:07:52.233
We can't forget about the power of tradition.

00:07:52.233 --> 00:08:04.846
Why not start a tradition that helps you focus on Christ, whether it's reading the nativity story as a family, or lighting candles to represent the light of the world, or writing prayers to Jesus?

00:08:05.379 --> 00:08:09.591
Yes, and don't be afraid to let go of traditions that distract from the true meaning of Christmas.

00:08:09.591 --> 00:08:11.867
It's not about keeping up with the culture.

00:08:11.867 --> 00:08:14.509
It's about honoring Christ in everything we do.

00:08:15.360 --> 00:08:29.096
Yes, in everything that we do, preparing our hearts for Christmas takes intentionality, but the reward is a deeper connection with Christ and a season filled with peace and joy and gratitude.

00:08:29.096 --> 00:08:38.232
And now a little fireside storytime chat with Lauren.

00:08:39.922 --> 00:08:46.163
The cat had an obsession with the sparkling, twinkling Christmas tree the entire holiday season.

00:08:46.163 --> 00:08:52.315
It was an endless job to keep the cat from climbing the tree and the family from climbing the wall.

00:08:52.315 --> 00:08:56.703
Thankfully, it was Christmas Eve and the tree would be coming down soon.

00:08:56.703 --> 00:09:02.361
However, it was then that the oversized barn cat decided it was time to wage war.

00:09:02.361 --> 00:09:09.241
Unfortunately, the tree stand wasn't up to the added weight of the pudgy, treat-happy tomcat.

00:09:09.241 --> 00:09:17.534
With one single leap, like a reindeer landing on a roof, the cat launched into the tree and it came crashing to the ground with a thunderous boom.

00:09:17.534 --> 00:09:22.291
Upon hearing the resounding crash, the entire family sprang from their bed.

00:09:22.291 --> 00:09:29.267
The living room looked like a Christmas wasteland, with ornaments rolling under the couch and the tree crushing presents.

00:09:29.267 --> 00:09:33.234
The cat slunk away under the radar to pick the needles out of his fur.

00:09:33.234 --> 00:09:40.581
Bobby the youngest looked up at his mother in wonder and, with the keen eye of a kid, he said Dad was right.

00:09:40.581 --> 00:09:43.090
Mom, santa thought your Christmas tree was ugly too.

00:09:43.090 --> 00:09:48.745
Are you not going to laugh?

00:09:50.081 --> 00:09:51.145
I'm laughing inside.

00:09:54.660 --> 00:09:55.586
That's pitiful.

00:09:56.422 --> 00:09:57.385
It was the cat, okay.

00:10:00.442 --> 00:10:01.725
I think the cat got fried.

00:10:02.028 --> 00:10:08.024
Okay, well, I'm sorry, I'm sick, I just don't have it in me to Hold on.

00:10:08.024 --> 00:10:12.094
Let me laugh for you, right, is that good?

00:10:23.639 --> 00:10:23.860
I apologize.

00:10:23.860 --> 00:10:24.342
Anyway, it it was great.

00:10:24.342 --> 00:10:24.764
I appreciate that.

00:10:24.764 --> 00:10:41.008
Well, I thought you'd like this, but, speaking of Christmas trees and Santa, and it reminded me to give a shout out for next week's episode about Christmas traditions if you liked our Halloween episode, oh man, you won't want to miss this one I know exactly what she's talking about, because I'm going to be on that episode too.

00:10:41.629 --> 00:10:43.212
You do not want to miss it.

00:10:43.212 --> 00:10:44.562
Invite a friend.

00:10:44.562 --> 00:10:49.416
And now some final thoughts from lauren all right.

00:10:49.436 --> 00:10:55.129
So I just want to read to y'all out of a book in the bible that I really like Isaiah 9, 6.

00:10:55.571 --> 00:11:08.595
It says For a child is born to us, a son is given to us, the government will rest on his shoulders and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.

00:11:08.595 --> 00:11:21.793
You know there was a time where people were looking forward to this exact event the birth of a king who was sent to us from heaven.

00:11:21.793 --> 00:11:24.267
He was God, the Father.

00:11:24.267 --> 00:11:59.057
He became flesh and sent us as just a small baby, humble in a manger, and where nowadays, people are forgetting the very reason of this holiday and are so focused on the worldly things, materialistic things like how much I can buy, who I can buy this for and what I can buy, when none of that is going to even go with you to where we're headed and that's heaven.

00:11:59.057 --> 00:12:00.010
You can't take any of that with you.

00:12:00.010 --> 00:12:02.010
Materialistic people are not going to survive what is coming, and that's heaven.

00:12:02.010 --> 00:12:02.347
You can't take any of that with you.

00:12:02.347 --> 00:12:06.580
Materialistic people are not going to survive what is coming, and that's Jesus Christ.

00:12:10.365 --> 00:12:18.129
So, as we wrap up, I hope this conversation has encouraged you to take a step back and reflect on what Christmas really means.

00:12:18.129 --> 00:12:25.648
Jesus is the reason for the season, and preparing our hearts for Him is the most important thing that we can do.

00:12:26.671 --> 00:12:34.277
That's exactly right, Rick, and whether it's through prayer, worship, serving or simply slowing down, let's make this season about Him.

00:12:35.225 --> 00:12:37.769
Yes, thank you for joining us today.

00:12:37.769 --> 00:12:41.495
We'd love to hear how you're preparing your hearts for Christmas.

00:12:41.495 --> 00:12:51.599
Send us a message at renewedmindsetscom or share your thoughts on social media, or email me at rick at renewedmindsetscom.

00:12:53.245 --> 00:12:54.148
And until next time.

00:12:54.148 --> 00:12:55.511
Merry Christmas everyone.

00:12:55.511 --> 00:13:02.557
Let's keep our hearts focused on Christ, the true gift of the season and a heads up next week on Renewed Mindsets.

00:13:02.557 --> 00:13:07.409
We are going to tackle those Christmas traditions Probably knock them to the floor.

00:13:07.409 --> 00:13:10.991
It's going to be good, painfully needed, but good.

00:13:12.205 --> 00:13:16.148
On that note, we love you, see ya, bye.

00:13:16.148 --> 00:13:25.052
Well, that's all for this week's show.

00:13:25.052 --> 00:13:28.735
You know the name of this show speaks my hope for you.

00:13:28.735 --> 00:13:32.636
It's taken from the words of Romans, chapter 12, verse 2.

00:13:32.636 --> 00:13:48.347
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind that by testing, you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

00:13:48.347 --> 00:13:54.337
If you enjoyed what you heard, do me a favor, please, and tell someone you know about it.

00:13:54.337 --> 00:14:00.096
Send them a link in a text you know.

00:14:00.096 --> 00:14:01.894
You may even need to download it to their phone and show them what a podcast is.

00:14:01.894 --> 00:14:05.735
If it was valuable to you, it will be to them.

00:14:05.735 --> 00:14:14.018
Visit renewedmindsetscom to hear past episodes, read the blog and check out the new merch.

00:14:14.018 --> 00:14:21.999
And, as always, while you're there, send me a voicemail by clicking the button at the bottom right corner of the main page.

00:14:21.999 --> 00:14:24.711
Tell me what you think about this show.

00:14:24.711 --> 00:14:27.932
I just might play it on a future episode.

00:14:27.932 --> 00:14:30.230
Until next week.

00:14:30.230 --> 00:14:32.789
I'm Rick.

00:14:32.789 --> 00:14:37.158
I love you.

00:14:37.158 --> 00:14:47.788
Are you ready to go See ya?

00:14:49.429 --> 00:14:53.995
The intro and outro music for the Renewed Mindsets podcast is Are you Ready?

00:14:53.995 --> 00:15:09.384
By Floodgate From the album Are you Ready Copyright 2002, offbeat Ministries Incorporated Floodgate can be found on Apple Music and iTunes Music used with permission.

00:15:09.384 --> 00:15:24.951
You don't get these a lot, but Lauren and I have been working hard the last four weeks or so trying to become a cohesive team, and we've had quite a few bloopers.

00:15:24.951 --> 00:15:26.610
I'm just going to throw a few in here.

00:15:26.610 --> 00:15:31.408
Merry Christmas, lauren.

00:15:31.408 --> 00:15:34.092
What's in Chica maca?

00:15:34.092 --> 00:15:36.011
Chica chica, dang it.

00:15:36.011 --> 00:15:42.892
We could leave that in and just say we're speaking in our prayer language.

00:15:43.072 --> 00:15:43.855
Rick is manifesting.

00:15:43.855 --> 00:15:45.692
Rick is manifesting.

00:15:50.105 --> 00:15:50.929
Let's start with it.

00:15:55.025 --> 00:15:57.575
We need one of those tape things that go.

00:15:58.306 --> 00:15:59.772
Does anybody really need to hear it?

00:15:59.772 --> 00:16:07.585
So, does anybody really need to hear it?

00:16:07.585 --> 00:16:10.717
I'll do it, like you.

00:16:11.465 --> 00:16:20.135
So, now that we've talked about, what Intentionally creating moments of stillness allows us to focus on?

00:16:20.256 --> 00:16:20.937
I need to do that again.

00:16:20.937 --> 00:16:23.541
Well, you don't get to do that again.

00:16:27.779 --> 00:16:30.207
Yes, did you hear where I was like?

00:16:31.912 --> 00:16:40.184
Yeah, in everything that we do, preparing our hearts for Christmas takes intentionality.

00:16:40.184 --> 00:16:47.111
What does it take, rick Intentionality, intentionality, that doesn it take, rick Intentionality, intentionality, that doesn't even sound like a word.

00:16:47.365 --> 00:16:48.508
Why would you put that in there?

00:16:48.948 --> 00:16:49.831
Intention.

00:16:49.831 --> 00:16:52.336
It's a word Intentionality.

00:16:52.336 --> 00:16:56.934
Preparing our hearts for Christmas takes intentionality.

00:16:56.934 --> 00:16:59.974
God, it's so hard to say Womp womp.

00:16:59.974 --> 00:17:03.351
Now that I've looked for bloopers I realize it's all me.

00:17:03.351 --> 00:17:08.730
Sorry, Lauren, I thought it was going to be a bunch of Lauren bloopers.

Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas

Listen On

Recent Episodes