Christmas Has Come and Gone
Beloved friends and family,
As I sit down to pen this post, the echoes of festive cheer still resonate in my heart. Yes, it’s true – Christmas has once again graced us with its magical presence, and just as swiftly, bid us adieu.
The flurry of excitement, the joyous reunions, and the warmth of love shared during this season have left an indelible mark on our souls. All the boxes Santa, err Amazon, brought to the front porch have long been carried into the house. We opened the boxes and packages, verifying the received orders. From their former home is the box with a smile under the company name. The supplier promised everything from A to Z. We re-wrapped the contents in magical paper covered with Santas, snowmen, candy canes, and even stars over mangers.
Excitement to Aftermath
Within the previous twenty-four to thirty-six hours, the wrapped gifts were delivered or opened. The air once infused with the scent of anticipation, though now, the excitement has settled into the muted aftermath of celebration. Remnants of the season lie scattered around the house. Bows, ribbons, and crumpled papers with tags and tape now litter the floor. The present’s contents are spewed across sofas, love seats, coffee tables. A floor, once a pristine canvas, is now a tapestry of holiday remnants, a testament to the joyous chaos that ensued.
Now What?
The question that lingers in the air like a delicate snowflake is – what now?
The routine unfolds predictably. New socks and undies, a few even adorned with holiday motifs, will undergo the ritual of washing before finding their place in the proper chest of drawers or dresser drawers. Nana and grandpas will gather trash bags, their sighs mingling with the rustle of torn wrapping paper as they contemplate the disposal of holiday excess. They’re already missing their precious children and while missing the grandkids, they feel a little guilty. They’re glad the grandkid’s are gone back home with their parents.
Indecision reigns as moms ponder the fate of the new acquisitions. A select few will become cherished staples in daily life, while others await their destiny, teetering on the edge of becoming garage sale treasures or contributions to a local charity.
The lucky few will not have over spent. The most fortunate will have paid for the items. The impulsive and undisciplined added the purchases to their credit cards monthly balance, causing financial pressures on their quality of life and even relationships.
A Hush Descends
In the wake of the festive storm, a hush descends. A very few among us will take a moment to reflect on the true essence of Christmas. Perhaps they will turn to the pages of the Bible, finding solace and meaning in the timeless story of Jesus. However, for the masses, the routine resumes. Jesus, like a cherished ornament, is gently placed back in the closet until the next significant occasion—perhaps Easter or a family funeral.
True Gifts Endure
And so, with a sigh of contentment and a touch of nostalgia, we bid adieu to another Christmas. Yet, for the fortunate, the true gifts of the season endure. As we clear away the holiday clutter, may we replace it with the daily presence and worship of Jesus, the greatest gift of all.
If you’re curious about my personal journey to discovering and embracing Christianity, I invite you to click HERE for my story.
Wishing you all a season of love, reflection, and newfound grace as we step into the dawn of a new year.
