I once signed a Christmas card saying, “I hope you have a meaningful Christmas.” Months later the recipient of that card got in touch with me and said that my Christmas wish had so resonated with her that it changed her whole way of approaching the Christmas season. And, like a boomerang, her reply then resonated with me.
We all want to have a merry Christmas, especially as compared to a stressed Christmas or a rushed Christmas. A merry Christmas brings up images of decorations, family, friends, music, laughter, and delicious holiday food. Just thinking about it makes my eyes start twinkling.
But let’s go a bit deeper. What about a meaningful Christmas? What does that mean to me? No two Christmases have ever been alike; no matter how much I celebrate a few traditions, they never play out exactly the same way. But one factor remains a constant. The meaning of Christmas is the wonderful celebration of Christ coming to earth. The awaited Messiah rested in a rough wooden trough. His story made history, changed the course of the world, and promises to change each of our lives as well.
So, our wish to you is that this year, and every year, you will have a meaningful Christmas, with ample time to contemplate the birth of Christ with its pageant of angels, shepherds, wise men, weary travelers, and a tiny babe. What a celebration!
Christmas also takes on a deeper meaning when we find ways to help others. Maybe there is a local charity, an immigrant family, or a lonely friend or relative that you can reach out to. Christmas giving can also be part of the celebration. Take time to express your appreciation to someone you care about. Slow down. Share your blessings. Don’t despair if the world around you looks dark and gloomy; you can shine His light on those around you.
This edition of Activated tells the beautiful story of Christmas and is brimming with suggestions and reflections on how to make this season more meaningful for you and your loved ones.
May your Christmas be full of joy and meaning and may the presence of Christ be felt in your heart and home now and always.