What kind of Christmas person are you? Rockin’ around the tree, decking the halls with boughs of holly, and laughing at Santa in his sleigh? Or quietly contemplating the amazing miracle that took place over 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem, listening to sacred Christmas music, and attending special church services?
I confess to being a little of both. While delighting in joyous holiday celebrations, I don’t want them to crowd out time for reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas, like pesky weeds in the garden of my mind.
I’ve always loved the decorations and festive lights everywhere you look. I enjoy setting out my Santa collection. I loved watching the grandkids tear gleefully into their piles of presents. Now that I live in Arizona and the grandchildren are young adults, the gift-opening part of it is different, but they Zoom me in to watch some of it.
However, their parents and I always tried to emphasize the spiritual significance of the holiday as well. Attending Christmas church services and reading the Christmas story from the Bible were always part of our traditional family celebration. Before passing out the presents, we reminded them (and ourselves) that we were exchanging gifts because God gave us the very best Gift of all, His Son.
Most traditional decorations symbolize some aspect of the real Christmas story. In addition to the obvious stars, angels, and shepherds, lights remind us of the Light shining in the darkness predicted in Isaiah 9:1-2. Candy canes portray a shepherd’s staff. The tree reminds us that Jesus suffered on a tree to purchase forgiveness of our sins.
Early 20th century writer Evelyn Underhill summarized it this way: “I do hope your Christmas has had a little touch of Eternity in and among the rush and pitter-patter and all. It always seems such a mixing of this world and the next — but that after all is the idea!”
So go ahead and rock around the Christmas tree, but then turn out all except the tree lights. Sit back and listen to soft, meaningful Christmas music. Assuredly the more worldly aspects clamor for our attention, but with some purposeful awareness, we can enjoy the fun side of the season without losing sight of its deeper meaning.
Our Christmas play, Do We Still Remember? is all about this dual aspect of Christmas. Come join us for one of our performances on Dec. 1, 2, 8, and 9 at Charis Christian Church, 4811 E. Julep St., Unit 101, Mesa. Tickets are $5. Reserve yours today by calling (602) 339-2443.