Simply Christmas

Its that time of year where I can't believe there are only a few days until Christmas.

It feels like I was just making turkey and cranberry sandwiches and now, my decorations will be so last week in well...a week!

There are a few more presents to buy, a stack of mail at the post office to pick up, desserts to bake, festivities to plan, a tree to water and there would even be snow to shovel but its decided to rain for the last four days and I hear its not even over!

I just want to slam my foot on the break petal of December. Come to think of it, why not.

I hope you have your seat belt on.

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Just Breathe. Ahhhh. That feels better already.

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So why are we even here? In the midst of this holiday called Christmas, feeling like the world is whirling by in a swirl of snow globes and twinkle lights.

Wasn't there a purpose to all this? You know, the "Reason for the Season." I always see it posted on gigantic signs in church lawns but has it really sunk in this year? Or have I been more focused on the fact that only half the things on my gift-giving list are crossed out and I'm officially one cookie exchange over the cuckoo's nest?

Its time to turn my attention back to the fact that all those years ago, Mary and Joseph were searching for a place to stay. A place where Mary could give birth to her baby boy. I don't think she had aspirations of a stable with animals and a manger. I'm sure she envisioned a snug little bed in an inn with candles, blankets and warm water. All the things she would need.

Or so she thought she needed.

God had a plan and even as they let go of those things, Mary and Joseph brought their child into this world in the most perfect of settings--a humble beginning for the grandest of kings. Can I humble my aspirations enough to truly enjoy this season? Can we take time away from curling ribbon and fluffing garland to remember that this holiday began in humbleness and love.

Because that is where the true joy is found.

Loving friends, loving family and holding on to the true meaning of Christmas; the story of the child who was born into this world, the child they named Immanuel--God with us.

Many blessings and happy Christmas!

Tell me, how do you slow down during Christmas?


Photo credit: The Nativity Story, 2006