I NEED MORE!

I have said it several times over the last few weeks, after the stress and anxiety of the last year, people just need Christmas. It’s the reason why lights went up right after Halloween in so many houses. Christmas is the time of year when people are just more; more kind, more generous, more patient. But Christmas can also be a time of year when we feel compelled to do more; more presents, more entertaining, more lights, more decorations, more food. There have been so many years when I have found myself caught up in that. With the way inflation has pushed people to the brink, there is a push for people to go back to a simpler Christmas, to go back to homemade gifts and more thoughtful gifts. But I’ll admit it, even though I would love to receive a homemade gift, I feel insecure about giving one, as if it isn’t enough.

At at the same time, the older I get, the more I crave a simpler holiday. I don’t want to spend days shopping for presents that will end up collecting dust or heading to the Goodwill in six months. I want to spend time with those I love. I just want peace. And at the same time, this year I do want my Christmas to be about more – more God. I want to truly feel the joy and miracle of what this season is really about – the birth of our saviour, the love of God, become man to save the world. What a truly special gift. I have had years when the Christmas season is the time I feel the farthest from God, because I’m so focused on what the world tells me Christmas is about. But one thing remains true, on Christmas Eve, when I stand in my church singing those hymns, I get choked up every time. I feel overwhelmed by God’s love for us; for me. This year I want to feel that throughout the holiday season.

One of the radio stations I listened to suggested reading the book of Luke for the advent season – 24 chapters for 24 days. 24 days spent with Jesus. I can’t think of a better way to have more this holiday season. We all need Christmas so very much this year, with it’s message of love and light in a world filled with darkness. Let the “more” you chase this year be the “more” of being filled with God’s love and grace and a peace that passes all understanding.

God bless,

Meredith