I Always Leave Something

John 1:4-5 – In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (KJV)

Christmas has been over for over a month, but I've just taken the cards off the bricks of my fireplace. The little wooden letters that spell out "Noel" will finally join the rest of the decorations. The padded felt that brings us "Joy" and fits around the thermostat has stayed up since we got it many years ago. It's not that I've forgotten — it's that I don't want to.

There's such a build-up to Christmas: plays, performances, presents. Homes are decorated in and out. Cards, letters, phone calls: all bring best wishes. All happening all at once. And then, in the wink of an eye, it's over. Everything returns to its former self. It's as if it never happened, as if it is something that can only be brought to mind at that time of the year.

And so I always leave something up, for awhile at least. Something so that someone will say, "Oh, you forgot….." Something so that I can say back, "Oh, but I haven't. Have you?"

The life of Jesus is what gives us Christmas. He is the light of the world. Why do we always want to forget that?

Prayer: Lord, help us always to keep Christmas close to our hearts, for it is at that time of year we are kindest, most giving and sharing. It is at that time of year when it seems we are able to live our lives a little more "Christ" like. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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