Pennsylvania Avenue during a winter snow storm.
Morning. The sun is still not up on a midweek January morning, almost February. One thing that I have noticed as I drive around suburban Washington D. C. is that it is not uncommon to see houses or even stores that are still decorated with Christmas decorations.
We have to acknowledge that there are a great number of people who honor the tradition of Advent. Is this tradition, the celebration of Christmas goes on for several weeks. However, I believe there is something else going on here.
I found myself listening to Christmas Hymns just this past week. It was exciting. I got to celebrate the birth of Jesus without the responsibilities of culture. No presents, no shopping, no advertisements. Just Jesus.
Frankly, I don’t have a problem with Christmas shopping. In fact, I think the economic activity that comes with Christmas is appropriate. In the United States, we can measure our priorities with our dollars. If it is important, we spend money. In this case, Christmas is a significant percentage of our retail economy. It seems then, that from a market perspective, Christmas is important.
But after Christmas, I am not shopping. I am simply worshipping. Now, I can focus on the person of Jesus. Jesus is not waiting on our presents, or Wise Men, or shepherds. Jesus is waiting on a relationship with us.
A relationship with Jesus is constant. Relationship is not just for a certain time of year. Jesus is with us wherever we are or wherever we go. As we go on our way, this morning. All of us.
If you a commuter, who wears construction boots, and your lunch under your arm. Or a commuter with a computer bag, and a smartphone. If you are that woman with two jobs, one at night, and one during the day. Taking a brief nap early in the morning, before you head off to your “day job”. A jogger, or a dog walker, concerned about your day, or even your future. If you are that sailor, with your dress uniform, and your “sea bag”.
Whoever you are. Jesus is looking to be a constant companion. Not just a Holiday.
John 15:13-15 (KJV) 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
Before we get to the next Christmas season, fulfill the purpose of this season. Accept Jesus into your life. “Jesus is the Reason”. Let Him be your reason.
We love you, and we are praying for you. Please comment us and let us know how you are doing. God Bless, and Take Care.
We are very busy everyday. Our relationship with Jesus gives it all purpose. Christmas is everyday for those who love Jesus. Our Hearts are tied to the savior in the mist of all situations, and our Joy continues to grow. It’s not alway great at Christmas. Lots of stress and hard decisions along with sadness for many people, can dim the outward celebration but just taking a moment to stop and think on Jesus helps to keep us going. Being able to see Christmas a little longer throughout our day is a great reminder that he is with us always.
June
Comment by June — January 30, 2012 @ 9:45 AM
I like this comment, and I agree. There are a lot of emotions around Christmas. But Jesus is the reason. He gives us purpose everyday. Take care.
Comment by HeartVisionChurch — January 30, 2012 @ 9:32 PM