I remember being very young and anticipating Christmas for the presents I would get to open. Imagining the wonderful surprises that waited for me under the tree was the main part of Christmas for me when I was very young.
When I was a bit older and able to give presents, imagining the joy I would bring from my carefully selected gifts was the main part of Christmas. Christmas shopping was a big thing, the main part of Christmas.
The celebration in church, the spiritual meaning of Christmas was always there in the background. I belonged to a family that believed. I belonged to a Christian family. We always had a manger scene and went to church. But, when I was young, the church part wasn't the joy.
But gradually, slowly, creeping into my soul, the meaning of the coming of the Savior at Christmas became the main thing. I understood that the rest of the things were trappings. Christmas became a spiritual journey for me.
Some years, I must confess the journey is more profound and some years I scurry around and wish I had more time to consider the spiritual meaning of the season. I am forgiving myself for my spiritual thin ice and gulping in with joy the times I can touch the sacredness.
This year I did Advent with greater intention. I found meaning and joy in the waiting. I think that helped me to have a better attitude and a better Christmas this year.
Rejoice, rejoice! It is Christmas!
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