Christmas morning isn’t like it used to be.
Here I am alone, sitting in my comfy chair, surrounded by the aroma of fir trees and the glow of Christmas lights. A cup of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows warms me, as the weather outside has dipped below thirty. I may be nibbling on one of Santa’s Christmas cookies too. Okay, some things don’t change.
The time keeps ticking away and the sun continues to rise, yet the home is still motionless inside. Two out of three adult children are snug in their beds. “Santa” is still bundled up in the comforts of his sheets as well.
As I reflect on Christmas traditions, some from days long ago, I can’t help but pray for those whose traditions have drastically changed this year. Loved ones have had loss in their lives since last Christmas. Children have married and new traditions begin for them and theirs. Some traditions haven’t changed, yet the feelings of it all, as the children are now grown, are lacking the early morning excitement they once held.
Oh, but hold on…hold on to what doesn’t change…hold on to the hope of the future. Just as the angel said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)
It may be almost nine in the morning, and it is as quiet as a mouse in the house, but I have hope of one day our home being filled with grandbabies and extended family, and the quietness will change to bustling bodies. The morning routine may change to another hour or day, so I will cherish these quiet moments as times of reflection and treasure up all these things and ponder them in my heart as Mary did over 2,000 years ago. (Luke 2:19)
Some traditions may have changed or been tweaked over the years, but the love of our family just being together is still strong and warms my soul much more than the hot cocoa I’m currently sipping.
What is the same? What hasn’t changed? The reason for the day…JESUS’ BIRTH.
No matter how your Christmas mornings may have transformed, I pray that you will do as the shepherds did and glorify and praise God (Luke 2:20) for He sent us His Son. Let God’s Son transform your life. He has the perfect plan for you.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
