These last several weeks I've been immersed in the wonderful realization of what we're celebrating: in his mercy, without our deserving, our father has sent a savior to open up the possibility of heaven, and to help us in our difficult journey here. How could we not be all filled with joy and hope at such tremendous largesse?
All around me is the stripping of the halls: the untrimming of trees, the quieting of carols, the resumption of work and business. It's a sad time for the world--the world who rejects the power of his Holy Name anyway: "Move on!" The shopping's done, the sales have been exhausted, the numbers are posted, so let's everyone sink back into himself and pursue his own interests, desires and whims. Yea.
For me: I'm keeping my Christmas tree and nativity for now. I'm making more cookies on Thursday (the traditional day of Epiphany). We'll bless our home and dedicate our family to our Blessed Mother. Better, though: I'm keeping Christmas--the hope and joy and desire for that heavenly home--right close. I'm keeping the Holy Name of Jesus right with me, a saving help in my times of struggle, which are many. I'm striving to bring that joy and hope to my children and husband, and to dismiss any bitterness, resentment and frustration that comes with this territory.
Let me turn to him always for the help he openly gives. Let me put away the foolish temptation to do it all on my own. I'm ready for the new year and all that it will bring, but not ready to turn away from Christmas.
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