Tuesday, Nov 30, 2021

“Christmas Change”

Woohoo! Twenty-five days to Christmas! This means that tomorrow the Freeform Network is beginning its “25 Days to Christmas” marathon! Every day, their programming schedule will include lots of Christmas favorites. Yes, I’ll have to admit that I’m a bit sappy when it comes to the Holidays, but come on, just about everyone has a favorite Christmas movie scene that brings them to their knees, laughing or crying.

Whether you are a laugher or crier, this Holiday Season is certain to bring plenty of emotion. One of the things I’ve already noticed is that some of my favorite traditions will not be experienced this year. Whereas last year I blamed it on the pandemic, this year I’m facing the truth that some of my favorite traditions are gone forever, for a variety of reasons.

The loss of some of my traditions is not going to be pleasant for me, or for others who are in a similar position. It’s kinda’ like looking for your favorite Christmas show, only to realize that Freeform Network isn’t carrying it this year. Rather, it’s been purchased by a third party who is requiring you to pay a fee to watch your favorite. Bah, Humbug! However, this shouldn’t cause us to give up on Christmas before Christmas begins.

Stuff like this is validly upsetting, but it doesn’t have to control our experience this year (or any year, for that matter). If we aren’t changing, then we aren’t growing. And if we aren’t growing, then we are moving in the wrong direction.

One of the gifts of Christmas is that Christmas will always be with us. Another gift of Christmas is that our Christmas experience will change each year. The changes, though they are different from what we prefer today, might prove to become our most endearing traditions tomorrow, bringing great gifts and blessings that we couldn’t begin to imagine. So, let it happen. In fact, invite them in! It’s Christmas Change and the best is yet to come!

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.” (Luke 12:27-28, New Living).