I always feel more reflective and serene during the winter months. While the world around me hits hyperdrive with Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday (which ends up going all week), and Christmas hysteria, I find a singular calm in the midst of it all—a keel bolstering my boat with an extra dose of strength and control. Urges to knit something, finish that quilt, bake gooey cookies, and read that stack of books that’s been tottering on my nightstand for months settle over me like the season’s first snow.
Bears have the right idea about hibernating. When all the foraging and energy it takes to survive the winter becomes too much (like shopping, baking, and decorating for us), they take a long nap. Wouldn’t most of us want to crawl into a cave with full bellies to sleep the winter away? (I’d bring my stack of books just in case insomnia hits!)
But the beauty of this time of year is that it inspires us with thankfulness and consideration for others. We’re reminded of how valued family and friends are to us. We even take notice of strangers, smiling and wishing them Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, as if we've just made a new friend – and perhaps we have. We turn our hearts toward the birth of our Savior and what that means to us and what it gives to us (Sorry, Santa). How very different Christmas would be without the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:11-14). Indeed, there would be no Christmas. The season would just be an extension of ancient rituals celebrating the winter solstice and other pagan festivities.
But our Savior was born (perhaps not exactly in winter) and there is a reason to celebrate! Instead of pagan rituals of sacrificing humans to appease false gods, the one true God sacrificed himself for mankind—for you and me. How does that new KitchenAid mixer or set of professional chef knives I’ve been wanting for Christmas even begin to compare to God’s gift to me?
It doesn’t. Not by a long shot.
So . . . “Welcome, Christmas, and Happy Birthday, Jesus!”
Love,
Regina
Special Note:
Many are hurting and are in need this time of year. Here are some suggestions of organizations you could donate to this season. Also, don’t forget to check out Dainty Jewells’ Foundation and the opportunities they offer to give back to the global community: https://daintyjewellsfoundatio...
