For those who celebrate Advent, the theme this year is share, share, share! It is an awesome theme for the Christmas season and one that inspires the heart. What do we mean by the word “share” that could make this season merrier for those around us? Here are a few thoughts.
You can share…
…the Christmas Spirit–Christmas Spirit is the sense that hope fills the air, with something mysterious, something wonderful. Our minds are awed by the idea of shepherds who were astonished by the glorious sight of angels as they proclaimed that the Son of God, the Redeemer of all humankind had been born. They were amazed at the sight of angels and so are we as we try to imagine it. It’s the story of love that we’ve heard every year since we were born, the one that still captivates us and gives us a desire for good to win out over suffering, and for joy to permeate every sweet soul. It’s our chance to share the Light of the world.
… the attitude of Christmas, the one that makes us feel more loving and giving and generous. We look for ways to give to community services, and volunteer in soup kitchens and nursing homes and homeless shelters. It’s our opportunity to be grateful for the abundance that blesses our lives every day and open our hands and hearts to those in greater need than we are. It’s a chance to pray for people who seldom have anyone to lift them up into the ever-faithful presence of God. It’s music that fills our souls with delight and carols that we love to sing over and over again. It’s an attitude of sharing.
…the symbols of Christmas that decorate our homes, reminding everyone that we still believe in the beauty of Christmas. It’s sharing gifts of love with those around us, and baking cookies that make every one smile. It’s Santa and reindeer and little faces anticipating the big day. It’s a feeling that only comes once a year.
Chances are, you know a few people who have lost their Christmas Spirit and mumble a few “humbugs” as they go through the season. They imagine it to be some kind of retailer’s holiday, some opportunity for endless charities to ring your bell. It could be that of course, if we let it be that, but it can be so much more. It can be the sweetest memory of childhood, the miraculous story of courage, the simple reflection of all that it means to spread joy and love. It’s all up to you, of course. God did His part. He sent a gift of love that exists for all eternity.
With a little Christmas Spirit, we can return the favor. Thanks for all you do to make a difference at Christmas and all through the year.
Let the advent-ure of sharing begin!
PS: Thanks to FeedSpot for featuring my blogs in the Top 100 Christian Women Blogs. Please check their site when you get a chance.