I have been moaning the fact that my Christmas season has been so far from calm. A crammed schedule and unexpected events combined with all the shopping, baking, and wrapping have just not given me many quiet evenings watching the lights on my tree and sipping cocoa.
I’m kind-of a broken record now for those who have been around me lately, but I am rethinking this whole chaos thing. I think the first Christmas was nothing if not chaotic–unplanned births, sudden trips, shepherds in the delivery room . . . And despite our warm fuzzy songs about chestnuts roasting on the fire and watching the frightful weather while munching popcorn, I believe most Christmas seasons are still a little crazy. Why do we write those songs and dream up those placid images? It’s what we want, what would be nice, but what rarely happens in the frantic pace of our world. We all talk about slowing down next year at this time, but come on, who’s going to do it? Are we really going to stop participating in the church program or baking goodies for the neighbors? We can cut out a few things, but the busyness will remain.
So, if you are blessed with a quiet night somewhere in this season, relish it with me. But don’t curse the chaos. Be blessed with the spirit of the season and be thankful for the Christ who brings us tidings of comfort and joy.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Thanks for posting this. I have never thought of it quite that way, but you’re so right! I’m sure Mary felt quite chaotic during that time. I guess the “chaos” during the holidays is almost impossible to avoid, especially when you’re a mommy!
My husband and I read this Christmas night and it was just what we needed just at that time! You reminded us to “not curse the chaos”. My husband reminded me that someday the kids will be grown and gone and we will have those quiet, less hectic holidays and then we will be wishing for the chaos!
Thanks for the encouragement! It was a blessing to us this season!
You always have the words, Valorie…..SO much truth in what you shared. Hope that your Christmas was very special admist the chaos! You ARE a blessing! Happy 2009!
thanks, friends, for the sweet words. I just write what I’m going through and it must resonate with everybody else — guess we’re all on the same page!
Cant say mine was that hectic. I started alot of things ahead of time, and just refused to do somethings. Mine used to be that way. Sometimes though so many things that are so important hit you, and there is just no way to cut it out–been there!!! 🙂