Thursday, December 2, 2010

Unwrapping Christmas

It's hard to believe it's that time of year already, but ready or not here it is!  Bonnie over at Faith Barista has kicked off a Thursday jam today and the topic is 'your hopes for Christmas' this year.

I can honestly say that my hope for Christmas this year is rediscovery.  Rediscovery is defined as:
the act, process, or an instance of discovering (something) again.  I love that.  Discovering something again...what is your something this year?

I want to rediscover the basic's of Christmas.  The real meaning we even celebrate the holiday...JESUS.  It is His birth into this world and His eventual redemption of a people for Himself that is celebrated.  Without the birth there would have been no death...no cross...no hope for me or you.

I want to rediscover the innocence of a child's smile when they see the first grand display of Christmas lights.  I want to see their happiness when we drive through the local 'live' nativity scenes.  To see what they have gotten under the Christmas tree...

I want to rediscover the Christmas story through the eyes of a child.  The wonder of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus being born with the animals.  The wise men that came from far away to visit.  The shepherds that came running...

Take a step back this year before your Christmas gets too hectic and filled with parties and events to really see what Christmas is all about.  Share the real meaning of the holiday with someone else.  Share it with your children.  Don't leave Christ out of Christmas...make Him the center of it as He deserves to be!

'While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.'  Luke 2:6-7 

9 comments:

Jenifer Metzger said...

While there are a couple of 'material' things I would enjoy getting, I am not even telling anyone what they are. There are other things so much more important to me this year. I want peace. I want joy. I want for myself, husband and children to discover the gift of Christ and giving this year. Thank you for this post.

Unknown said...

I'm with you - I want to rediscover the real meaning of Christmas. Jesus has got to be the center of it all!

Bonnie Gray said...

Rediscovering what's new about His story always amazes me. Going back to the basics... I think we'll find surprise, Allison! Counting down with you to unwrapping is gift.

Heidi said...

Yes! There really is no point to Christmas without Christ at the center! Thanks!!

youth pastor said...

I love the reminder to "discover again." I think we oftentimes forget the wonder and majesty of that night like none other in Bethlehem.

Becky said...

I enjoyed reading your words, listening to your thoughts.

I agree with you,"Without the birth there would have been no death...no cross...no hope for me or you." The manger is only part of the real meaning of Christmas.

Blessings,

Phather Phil Malmstrom said...

Wouldn't it just be wonderful if all of us, even if only for a little while, could step back from daily life and take the time to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas from the eyes of a child? Thank you so much for your post, and have a Blessed day!

Unknown said...

Amen!

Sistergirl said...

Amen! That's why I like doing the advent to keep me grounded.