The Christmas Cleanup...

It is December 27th, the parties are over, the gifts are unwrapped, and only crumbs remain in the cookie tins. Another Christmas has passed in what one might call a whirlwind of events. As I sit contemplating my next move in the cleanup, I wonder if it is all worth it and what purpose all the busyness serves. I ask myself if I truly enjoy watching December pass in a whirl of events and traditions. What is it that is really important to me and what would I change or eliminate about this crazy month?

I do love Christmas. I love the Christmas hymns that we sing in church and dressing the kids in their Christmas clothes. I love the lights and decorations...and all the yummy goodies to eat. I love the Christmas cards and newsletters from family and friends. But it all passes so quickly. It seems like just yesterday we gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving and now it is time for the Christmas cleanup. So I ask what is it that I want to keep with me? What is it I want my children to take away from this holiday?

My answer. Jesus. When it comes down to it, He is really all that matters. When the lights are tunrned off and the tree thrown out, he is still here shinning in the lives of those who know Him as Savior. He came as God's gift to this world, He died to save a lost and dying people. We celebrate him in December, let's not forget Him in January.

As I pack up the Christmas decorations I won't be packing away my Jesus. For he lives in me and through me. I had the joy of watching two of my children give their lives to Jesus this season and so I also rejoice that he lives in them. And as we pass from Chistmas into a new year my heart is filled with joy at the knowledge that Jesus is Lord of all in this family. I will look forward to the celebration of next year, but I move forward know that I can celebrate Jesus everyday.