Submission by Dr. Glenn Mollette
We can’t think about December without thinking about Christmas. December is saturated with Christmas: shopping, baking, carols, television programs, religious services and the Christmas spirit.
Christmas has an accelerated pace of hustle and bustle, but it also has an eerie, haunting side. I was going through my cell phone contact list this morning and was appalled at how many contacts I have who are now deceased. Every time I turn around, I discover an acquaintance has passed. For many of us, we can’t reach the joyful crescendo of Christmas celebrations without wading through the mire of grief. We think about parents, spouses, children and friends we loved so much who are no longer here to celebrate with us. We remember old times that were good times, and those times aren’t as possible as they once were. It’s a major hurdle to overcome, and it’s not easy.
Christmas presents a yearly challenge for us to create a new and special time. What was will not be again. We have to recreate our holidays, and that means they will be different. They can’t be the same because what was no longer exists. Therefore, what was cannot happen again.
The baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem. He was God in the flesh and came with a divine purpose: to bring joy and life. He brought joy to Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and the wise men who traveled from afar to worship Him. Unfortunately, Jesus was troubling to some who did not understand His mission and purpose.
This month of December, we will not forget those who were so special to us. They helped make Christmas bright. Let’s focus on the One who truly brings light to our lives and is the light of the world — the baby Jesus, who said, “I am the light of the world.” We need His light to navigate the darkness. Yes, the world has a dark side. Death and grief are difficult to navigate. We need the Christ child, who came to help and save us, to lead us through this month and the rest of our lives.
This December, let’s focus on loving those who are here. Let’s draw close to each other. Jesus will help us. He said, “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me.” He will make our journey lighter and brighter. Reach out to others. Don’t wait for your phone to ring. You make the call. Send the text. Spread God’s love and share well-wishes and goodness with all you know.
When we give love and hope to others, it comes back to us. If we invest in others, the investment will be returned in some way. Jesus is our example. He came to earth. He lived, loved and walked among us. We are the benefactors of His life. As we look to Him this season, may others be the beneficiaries of the Christmas spirit that dwells in you.
