Every year, I vow to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience.  I organise myself, make lists, and have cut back on nonessential obligations – extensive card writing, endless baking, and decorating. I even try to cut back on spending on gifts… but it never happens… … somehow I always still rushing at the last minute.

I still find myself exhausted, and I have to make a concerted effort to appreciate precious moments with God, with family and friends, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas.

In the end, all our business and, perhaps even the gift giving get in the way of our true peace and joy at Christmas. I think the Grinch said it best:

And the Grinch, with his grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow,

Stood puzzling and puzzling: “How could it be so?”

“It came without ribbons! It came without tags!”

“It came without packages, boxes or bags!”

And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before!

“Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store.”

“Maybe Christmas. . . perhaps. . means a little bit more!”

Dr. Suess

Advent Blessings to you all as you prepare a place for Jesus in your festivities … and your hearts.

Reverend Shan