“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”
In a recent conversation I had it was brought up that each year stores begin displaying Christmas items earlier and earlier. The season’s beginning has moved from right after Thanksgiving, to right after Halloween, and even earlier in some stores. By pushing the season earlier it seems to take the “most wonderful time of the year” feeling away. Of course we all know that it is because of financial reasons that retail stores are doing this.
Fortunately we don’t have to be bothered by the shift in marketing, because as Christians we can celebrate Christ all year long. The “wonderful feeling” is in the meaning of Christmas. In fact, I once met a lady who left her Christmas tree up all year long (an artificial tree of course). I recall seeing it in the summer months and I asked her about it. She stated that she thought that it was beautiful, and that it reminded her of what Christmas was about. I believe that she was correct, and from this story we can see that it was a great witnessing tool as well. Christmas truly is a wonderful time of the year; it is a time of celebrating of the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As Christ followers we do not have to be trapped or annoyed by all of the ribbons, boxes and bags. For just as the Grinch found out, even without all of the stuff, we still have reason to rejoice.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Luke2:11-12
Blessings,
Jeff