I love that verse. Jesus first. Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.
Yet, sometimes, if something isn't against Jesus but it makes others happy, it is fine just to do it.
For the last couple of years, I decided I was done dyeing my hair. I am 54 and I thought -- I can go gray. And of course I can. Jesus didn't care one way or the way. It was my decision. Totally my decision. My husband loves me no matter what and thinks I look just fine no matter what color my hair is.
But a month or so ago, a dear friend gave me a gift to put toward getting my hair done. I caved. I was fine being gray, but if it meant so much to someone who loves me, I thought, okay.
And guess what -- it has made a few people very happy. Who knew a decision about hair would be such a big deal to a few people who love me? It was still my decision, but if it makes them happy, why not do it. As I said Jesus doesn't care what color my hair is. Jesus doesn't care if my hair is curled or in its natural state -- stick straight. It wasn't that these dear ones didn't accept me with graying hair. They did. But for some reason they smile when they see me with brown hair. So, for a while (don't know how many years I'll keep dyeing my hair) I'll keep these people smiling by putting a bit more effort into my appearance.
It's okay, very okay, to do things to make people happy. Just don't start living in such a way that you want people's approval. That is a big trap from the enemy, a trap that will always catch you; a trap that will get in the way of living for Jesus.
I hope you have a beautiful and meaningful Christmas as we close out 2022. And if you are still reading you probably know me and I will give you a short update on my household:
It is just me, Shannon and Hawken now. Me and my boys. Son Pete will come home for a few days, but other than that it is just the three of us. We have a Christmas Eve service at Dupree Baptist at 4 p.m. (We've done this for years now. All are invited and it is my favorite service of the year -- if you are in the area that day, please join us. We end with candlelight; and there will be some lovely, lovely music).
Merry Christmas!