"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."  (Romans 12:2)

This time of year, I vacillate between being irritated and being excited.  The early appearance of holiday decorations seems to come earlier each year, with visual and verbal messages that the season has arrived. It irritates me that I must think about and plan for Thanksgiving and Christmas, when Halloween is barely over and the football season is still in full swing. Yet, the thought of holiday celebrations, family, laughter and love being shared excites me.  I love the music, the colors, the decorations, the opportunity to work less and enjoy time with family and friends. 

As I was thinking about these dual and often conflicting feelings, the Romans passage from last month's meditation came to mind. It occurred to me that I could "renew my mind" about this early appearance of holiday messages and demands.  Rather than be irritated about the commercialization and stress that is now so much a part of the holidays, I can choose not to conform to the world's definition of the season.  I can choose to see these visual and verbal reminders to take time to give thanks more often than I do when I am so busy with routine things.! They can be reminders to me to share more, to think of others more than myself! They can be reminders to me to regard the season as one of preparation for the greatest birthday celebration! They can be reminders of me to be glad Jesus was born for my redemption! They can be reminders that I have joy, love, peace and hope to share!

All I need to do is not be "conformed to this world", but "transformed by the renewing of my mind". I can choose not to be irritated and stressed by all the worldliness of the season.  Instead, the months of November and December can be full of excitement, energy and gratitude.  I can rejoice in every day that I can acknowledge and celebrate God's goodness. And I believe that indeed is part of the "good and acceptable and perfect will of God".