Most of my Christmas decorations are put away. I say most because inevitably I'll be somewhere in the house in the next week or so and find a small candle or a string of white lights that missed my initial packing. It happens every year. And every year when I make the discovery I get disgusted with myself. It's extra work and takes extra time to find the right box in the basement and put the decoration away once and for all.
As I reflect on the ritual of Christmas decorating, I must acknowledge that it takes time. I never put things in exactly the same place each year. The Christmas tree and the nativity set find their homes in the southwest corner of the family room and on the mantel, respectively. The rest of the decorations get displayed depending on my taste, whether or not I made new purchases, and the amount of time I have to prepare my home for the season.
That I leave a few decorations behind at the end of this festive season is part of the process. Perhaps I should realize that finding those small items gives me an opportunity to extend Christmas; to take time to reflect on this beautiful season of the year which passes all too quickly; to keep the memories made and the laughter shared in my heart a bit longer; to recommit myself to living more like the baby born in the manger, Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.
Here's to finding candles and lights every day; chances to keep Christmas, to keep Jesus, alive and close all year long. Happy New Year!
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