SO WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS CHRISTMAS……….?

I know I want to be basking in the ‘winter wonderland’ we often experience being privileged to live in the Northwest. 

I am in California at present and make no mistake I love the sunshine but at Christmas time there is nothing quite like the majesty of white laced pine trees, snow capped mountains, the joyful sounds of carolers drifting through the crisp evening air and the stillness that permeates our very being with each fresh new snow fall.  Nothing can trump the fascination of the raw beauty of God’s creation.

This natural splendor reflects the very nature of a Savior whose birth we celebrate at Christmas – not that our December timeframe falls within the parameters of theological accuracy but that we mark an event of life changing proportions. 

So back to my original question, ‘what are doing this Christmas?’  Will you be ‘present’ to enjoy the occasion of celebration with friends and family, with church and community?  Or will you be consumed by marketers who have perfected the art of drawing you into their web of consumer spending leaving you frustrated, exhausted and eventually broke. 

This year I want to focus on the inexpensive simplicities of a loving family, a worshiping church, fun filled relationships and the heart of a loving Savior.

Embracing the ‘God’ things at Christmas is cost effective and eternal – being caught up in the secular hype will leave us emotionless and empty.  The temporal, short term thrill of getting a new sweater on sale will always pale in comparison to the deeply moving experience of handing a warm coat to a needy stranger.

Let’s make time to do the heart warming, good things this Christmas – and don’t forget take the opportunity to bring a friend to one of the Christmas services.

Rich blessings

Gabriella