Well, it’s finally the most wonderful time of the year! Which means most of our houses have, at least one, Christmas tree covered with decorations. Some elegant and formed by professional craftsmen, others that are homemade and, while maybe not so elegant, are attached to memories that we won’t soon forget. And why would we want to?! Our houses smell like fudge, chocolate covered anythings, and whatever other treats we made for the season. For most, these bring back memories of past Christmases and the glories thereof, but we can be too quick to brush over the fact that the moments we are walking in will soon become the memories that we cherish and tell stories about, and too quick to brush over the reason for this season.
You’ve heard this part thousands of times and for good reason. Yes! The reason for the season is the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s only son who eventually sacrificed himself by giving his life so that we may be able to obtain eternal life. For believers this story should awaken a feeling inside of us, joy. As believers in Christ it is our duty to make disciples, year-round. This does not always mean preaching in the street or handing out tracks, it can simply be the actions we choose to make every day. If we can’t spread joy during the season created to celebrate our savior’s birth, when can we? Joy is defined as: a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated (dictionary.com). Joy is derived from the value and appreciation we place on whatever it may be bringing us this feeling. This value and appreciation can be expressed through another emotion: gratitude. Joy isn’t a feeling that is thrown upon us, we don’t just miraculously experience it without putting forth some effort on our end. Joy is something that requires us to pursue it, to find it, it is something that comes from within. This time of year, it is easy to get stressed about time or money and the let that rob us of our gratitude for this season. Gratitude that there is a God who loved us not only loved us enough to create us, but when we messed up his perfection, he sent his only son to die for us so that we could be with him forever. Gratitude for the family and friends that may or may not be able to buy us nice things, but that care enough to come see us and make memories together. Gratitude for the loved ones we no longer have with us, but for the memories we were able to share with them for however long or short of a time we were together. The only thing stopping you from having joy, is you. Think about this: enjoyment requires us to be in-joy.
I heard a story on the radio today about people going to Walmart and paying off less fortunate families’ layaway bills, so that they can enjoy Christmas without the financial stress. One of these secret Santa’s is a boy that is under the age of 10 who saved up money just to pay off a layaway bill. He told his parents (who I’m assuming told the media) something to the extent of “I know how fortunate I am and want others who aren’t as lucky as me to enjoy this Christmas just like me.” He knows what this season is all about, he selflessly gave what he had because of the overwhelming gratitude he had in his life. While we may not have much, the only thing taking away our joy, is us.
“This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
In Christ and Merry Christmas,
Morgan Smith
Comments