As I moped over the fact that Christmas has indeed come to a close this past week, I spent some solid time considering what exactly it is about Christmas that I love so much. Here's what I came up with:
- The music. I love the hymns we sing in church, going caroling, and playing Christmas music while I bake or sip some coffee. Sure there is great "non-Christmas" music; but you've got to admit with me that there is something great about Christmas albums, no?
- Everyone seems happier. Sure, there's still a Grinch or two or three out there, but there seems to be this joy that is contagious wherever go. I like that.
- People seem less selfish. Yeah, there's a bounty of selfishness at Christmas time as we focus on ourselves, what we want to get. But for some, there's a focus on "What can I give to show my family/friends how much I love them? how much I appreciate them?"
- The beautiful lights, trees and other decorations. Christmas lights on a dark night reflecting off the snow? Absolutely beautiful. Christmas trees? They seem to hold a certain fascinating beauty too.
- Seeing family. Although 500 plus miles separate us from Jordan and I's families, we still had an opportunity to see them during the Christmas season. I am so blessed by each and every one of them.
- Having our mailbox stocked full of Christmas cards and letters from loved ones rather than bills, ads, and junk mail. This is the one time of year that it seems we are remembered by more than Chase, MDU, and the City of Beulah.
After making this list, I decided that most of those things I can do -- I should do -- every month of the year. Sure, I might not want to listen to "Let it Snow" in July, but why not something like "O Come All Ye Faithful"? And although Christmas lights and trees are indeed beautiful, there is other beauty around me that I consistently take for granted. Like the bright beauty of the moon on a clear night or the awe-striking colors in the sunrise.
And why, oh why, does it take a holiday for me to think about something to give my loved ones? Why do I spend days, even weeks, pondering what to give my husband for Christmas when I should be giving to him daily? Maybe not buying an expensive or elaborate gift for him each day - but shouldn't I always be thinking of him before myself? How I can put his needs above my own. How I can serve him with love and respect. How I can support him best in his ministry. And why does that stop with family? How can I bless my neighbors? The clerks at the store? My church family?
"Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." -
Galatians 6:9-10
I'm not one for New Year's Resolutions. But I think this year I'll try and keep the spirit of Christmas alive despite the coming of January. Maybe that means I'll be listening to Kenny G in April. Maybe that means I'll take time to soak up the beauty of the Lord's creation when I would otherwise complain about the heat in August. Maybe it means your mailbox will be hearing from me more often throughout the year. Maybe I'll begin to focus less on my self every day and more on those around me.
Who's with me?
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