The Spirit of Christmas [Christmas Advent Post Series: December 1]
Christmas is upon us and our tree sparkles in all its beauty. We set our tree up before Thanksgiving and have been enjoying it. White and blue LED lights, Christmas ornaments from Christmas’ past, bright red bows, and a light blue glittery angel stands on the highest branch.
Tabletop fiber optic Christmas trees in silver, white, and green, sit upon a half built-in wall divider between our dining room and family room. Lighted houses and churches illuminate our dining room in a soothing whimsical tone.
All nine stockings are hung on a rod iron gate-looking wall décor near our living room. The stocking count includes the four human members of our family (my Dad, my Mom, myself, and my brother), plus my dog, in addition to Reign and Joyllie (our birds), Sydney (who passed into Heaven on March 26), and Freedom (who passed into Heaven on November 13).
Even among all the shiny, glittery, and delightful grandeur of Christmas decorations, it is important to remember the true meaning and spirit of the Christmas season, Jesus! The Christmas advent begins today, marking the preparatory and anticipatory days to Christmas.
Stores are already bursting with shoppers filling their carts and checking off their lists. Minds are becoming filled with to-do’s that must be achieved, in earthly eyes, before Christmas. People are bustling around faster than a wintry breeze, as wrapping paper flies in the air, ribbon is strung around the room, and tape is stuck on one’s fingers.
Yet, many years ago, when Jesus Christ was born, there was a glorious peace that surrounds the now, hoopla of excitement and stresses of the season. So, as you go about the Christmas season this year, keep your eyes focused on the eternal picture of what Christmas truly celebrates:
The birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world!
ISAIAH 9:6 “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (NKJV)
My Mother made the above Nativity Set several years ago and we have it on display year after year.
Today kicks off my Christmas Advent Post Series. I encourage you to visit my blog daily for insights, devotionals, ideas, and more, as we countdown to Jesus’ Birthday!
