|
The magic, surprise
and awe of the holidays
Send a link to a friend
[November 26, 2018]
Nestled
in the end of the year, when the days grow shorter, the trees grow
barren and a chill is over the land, comes a season of merriment, a
wonderful time of joy. It lifts the spirits, gives ample opportunity
to receive and spread joy. It is a season of magic, surprise and
awe.
|
|
 To prevent the chill from coming in, friends and
family come together to open the holidays with the warmth of thanks,
gathered around a table with love, to laugh, to hear stories and to
eat much together in a house warmed by the oven and warmed by their
gathering. Prayers are said aloud and prayers are lifted silently
remembering humble beginnings and giving thanks for steadfast love.
Because the trees outside grow weary and drop their leaves, we bring
an ever-green tree inside, a tree that symbolizes life and lifts our
spirits. We merrily decorate that tree, making it even more
beautiful, giving our home a living center where our joy can grow.
It is the living reminder of that barren tree from which God's grace
freely flowed.
And to fend off the dark, to make the days grow longer, we light
candles and decorate with strings of lights, colored and white. The
magic begins to emerge from within and without. Hearts are lifted,
spirits aloft, and a sense of awe fills us as our lives are filled
with mirth. Gaily wrapped presents are exchanged, symbols of care
and love. Laughter and singing fill the air, as we joyfully watch
the kids play with the empty boxes.
And finally, in the very end of the year, old things, sad things,
things that separate us and hold us apart are laid aside and forever
forgotten. It is a season of renewal, of relationship, of
forgiveness, looking onto the promise of the future. The New Year is
upon us.
[to top of second column] |
And so, prepare your hearts. Put off the weight of
the world, the worries, the cares. Prepare to receive it as it comes
your way: the warmth, the life and the light of the world, for it is
coming. Together we say come: the magic, surprise and the awe of the
holidays!
From all of us to all of you, the happiest holidays. God bless!
[LDN]
|
