By Pat
A friend of mine asked me to write a devotional about Christmas; memories, lessons learned, etc. Where could I start? What could I say? Like most of us, I have enough Christmas memories to fill an entire notebook. Baking cookies, wrapping gifts, decorating trees. Family, friends, food. Lovely, warm memories that bring a smile to my heart when called to mind.
There have been lean holidays, and more prosperous ones. Some hectic, and some, more peaceful. We have, through the years, said sad goodbyes to loved ones, and have also happily welcomed new little lives into our family.
Times have changed, things have changed, we have changed, and certain aspects of the fabric of our family have changed. But one thing that for me has never changed, except to grow stronger, is the feeling that overcomes me this time of year, no matter what else is going on around me, and that is the feeling of hope.
Through all the busy-ness of the Christmas season, I am filled with a sense of calm when, finally on Christmas Eve, I sit down in church, take a deep breath, and feel in my heart the hope that is Jesus. When I hear Christmas music, when I see houses brightly and colorfully decorated, I feel that sense of peace that I need, that I long for. Calmness comes over me, and I remember what it's all about. When I see the faces of my loved ones and feel their warm hugs, I am filled with joy and gratitude. I have learned not to take them for granted, for none of us knows how long our days are on this earth.
Though circumstances around me may change, the meaning of Christmas does not. I do not remember the gifts I have given or received through the years, but I always remember the love, the joy, and the hope in the newborn baby we celebrate: Jesus, the gift beyond measure. I have learned that the gift of a smile, a hug, and a word of encouragement to someone who may be struggling are the best gifts of all, and I give them more freely. And I have learned that the joy and the hope of Christmas can and should be carried and given out all year long to a world that desperately needs it. After all, hope is the best thing of all, and Jesus is hope, Jesus is light, and Jesus is love.
Thank you, God, for the best gift ever, and may I always honor you by showing Jesus not just on Christmas, but every day!
Pat is a good friend who is passionate about her faith and her family. She works from home supporting a family business, and loves to read, write and garden when she can, and spends every spare moment with her grandkids.