WHITE ELEPHANTS

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Most of us have received one—especially this time of year. A friend hands us a party invite, with the words, “Bring a white elephant gift.” Perhaps the first time you saw that statement, you shook your head wondering, “How am I going to lay my hands on one of those?” It’s a weird term, to be sure. Dictionary.com defines white elephant as “a possession unwanted by the owner but difficult to dispose of.” That probably includes a lot of gifts under the tree as well.

Evidently this crazy phrase originated in ancient times, with the king of Siam. He devised a cruel way to disable an enemy. The king sent his adversary a rare and wonderful gift—a live albino elephant. Because the animal was considered sacred, the recipient was duty-bound to feed and care for it. The elephant required an exorbitant amount of time, energy, and resources. Eventually, the king’s opponent would wear himself out caring for this rare gift. What originated as a blessing became a bane.

Our world is crammed full of white elephants. Urgent matters scream for our attention, like an awakened baby. Details distract us like a noisy siren. It’s a battle. Ephesians 5:16 warns us to be “making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.”

Our spiritual enemy would love nothing more than to yank our attention away from Jesus by shoving a white elephant in our faces. These beasts can suck the joy out of our holidays faster than a carwash vacuum. More than any other season, our calendars overflow with commitments. We don’t wish to relegate Jesus to the role of a white elephant—but we do, even though we may not realize it. We must understand, especially during the holidays, that the main thing is to make the main thing the main thing! I know it’s hard. How do we say no to our kids’ Christmas recital?

Try this. Intentionally carve out time to reflect on the reason for the season. Set aside your gift-wrapping, grab a cup of eggnog, and calm your soul in front of the hearth. (Even a fake TV fireplace will work.) Meditate on God’s greatest gift to humanity—the gift of himself as a baby. I promise you this: instead of wearying you like an albino pachyderm, he will strengthen your soul. Focusing on Jesus brings joy and peace. He’s the opposite of a white elephant gift.

Principle: Don’t allow the white elephants of the holiday season to steal your time and energy.

Ponder:

●       What white elephants in your life do you need to get rid of?

●       What steps can you take to make that happen?

Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Ephesians 5:8–20.

Prayer: Lord, I find I’m far too rushed during the Christmas season. Help me carve out time during this busy time of year to experience the joy of your birth.

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