There are flurries today; the effort leaving a mere dusting on our window sill. The last holiday of the year is near, and winter is nipping at our heels. Here I am sitting near our fireplace, journal on my lap, in deep contemplation. My eyes are captivated, staring endlessly at the gentle ballet of glowing amber flames. As they dance, I can’t help but take in the warm glow radiating from within the marble stone hearth.
My thoughts drift around for a bit and then settle on the holiday season ahead and the many loved ones I so deeply miss. Now deceased, they will not be here to share this holiday with me, and it hurts. I can understand why many don’t like Christmas. They turn from it because they feel alone. A holiday can remind folks of what they once had, and what they’ve lost. Then there are others that dislike Christmas for reasons that are a bit more difficult for me to understand. They shun Christmas because Christ wasn’t born in December, which is very true; or the origins of the holiday is not biblical, which is also quite true.
Challenged by such thoughts over the years, I made a personal decision, after careful consideration, to accept Christmas as a time for celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He is the ultimate expression of our Father’s love for us. He offers the gift of salvation. So I’ve chosen to make Christmas a time to speak to those who might be in search of such a gift.
Christmas is also a time for coming together with family and friends, or for sharing a few laughs and spreading a little joy to those burdened with loneliness. A time for remembering the truest meaning of the season, because we, and our love, give it that meaning. It’s an opportunity to share the truth of Christ’s compassion and His resurrection to otherwise non-receptive ears. I think it’s a time to overwhelm error with truth, and loneliness with love.
I use this season for a time of reflection and my end-of-year spiritual renewal. At times, when I look up at the sky, I’m reminded by the formations of noisy geese headed south that we are also on a journey, a journey that ultimately ends at our heavenly home. I’m reminded of the love and grace that God has shown me by sheltering my family under His precious wings—and I feel compelled to spread that love and grace to others.
As I gather with my loved ones to celebrate the birth of Christ, I will also remember the importance of family. The bond I share with them is a special one—and it should be nurtured and cherished forever. Together, we support each other, always helping each loved one to grow in their faith and in their relationship with our Savior.
Like migrating birds, we journey on a winding path towards Heaven, a path that should have been straight were it not for many detours. And as such, I will remember to be thankful for the blessings and mercy God has given me along the way. Whether it’s the love of a family member, the warmth of a home, or the simple joy of a snowy Christmas Day, I have so much to be grateful for. So I will make the most of the time I’ve been given—a mere twinkle of time in the scope of eternity.
Now I’m completely lost in thought as I peer outside at the flurries. Look at God’s little reminders and my end-of-the-year reward! His gift from above is snow. There’s something about the soft, white powder falling from the sky that adds a touch of joy to our holiday season. Snow is like natures confetti. And our journey is something to celebrate, and not fear.
So whether you’re spending Christmas in the country, where the snow is deep and pristine, or in the city, where it’s been carefully groomed and packed into perfect snowmen, the snow is a reminder of the beauty and wonder of God and how He showers us with His love. It effortlessly brings with it a sense of peace and tranquility. As it blankets the ground, it muffles the sounds of an overly busy world, creating a serene and quiet atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the company of loved ones. It also sets the perfect tenor for the passionate soul- searching prayer to our Father.
What’s not to love about Christmas? I think it’s also a lot of fun, too! Going for a sled ride, building a snowman, a snow cave, or having a snowball fight. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the snow and create lasting memories with your family, your friends, and your heavenly Father. I have many snow filled, boyhood memories with mom and family that I’ll never forget. Those happy memories have helped carry me through many trials. So I’m hoping for a white Christmas.
Okay, I think I’m done contemplating. I think too much, it’s getting late, and it is time for bed. So I’ll put a pen to my trusty old journal and scribble a few simple words: “I guess in the end, Jesus, Christmas, snow, and gifts are a special part of the holiday season. They all bring us beauty, peace, and fun. All and all, they are a small hint of the joy and wonder of friendship, family, and the journey we take together. I don’t think the date really matters. The End.”
So as I close my old leather-bound journal and clasp its buckle tight, all that I have to say to you is this: It’s the end of the year and you made it! So why not grab your coat, head outside, and enjoy the atmosphere of this Christmas season? You won’t regret it. Let the joy of Christ burn within your hearth. And by the way, while you’re having fun, tell a lonely stranger about the King. His name is Jesus, and because of Him, none of us will ever be alone.
“‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’” Isaiah 1:18
