Tis the Season
December 3, 2008
by Susan Lucas
It’s that time of year again. People are already rushing around, toys are out of stock and the pace of our lives gets more hectic. Seems like we either love the hustle and bustle or would rather do without all the fuss. Since my mom passed away on a Christmas morning and my sister in January, I am always filled with memories and longing. I would gladly give everything I own just to spend an hour with them. The frantic pace only accentuates the sadness.I always have to get my focus off the toys and tinsel and onto the Hope of Christmas.
I love to be still and quiet during this season.The candlelight service at our church is therapeutic for me. To stop and be still takes me back to the arms of Jesus. To be wrapped up in His love reminds me of what Christmas should be. I am reminded that I am not alone and that He is still with me.
I always try to focus on others during the year but especially at Christmas. I try to involve my children too. I want them to share God’s hope and love with the people who need it the most whether it be an elderly person at a nursing home, a family with no money to spend or even a homeless pet. All my children enjoy helping others. For a mom,that is a precious gift! This gift can’t be bought or wrapped.
I rarely remember what I got for Christmas, I do remember sleeping with my sister each Christmas Eve and my brother’s exquisitively wrapped presents. I remember the pitiful Christmas trees that we found in the woods and Mama allowing me to decorate the tree “all my myself”. They are gifts that never tarnish. For these memories I am thankful, gifts of gold and hope from God.
So true … it is the memories that you remember with others. It was the time you spent with those people making the memories
Susan, that was incredibly touching! You are an awesome person and such a strong women! Praise God for you!!