I’m always a little sad when the decorations and decor come down and are put away for another year. It officially marks the end of the Christmas Season, and a return to New Year “normalcy”, whatever that may be during these uncertain times.

On Christmas morning I posted on Facebook:

“Christmas Eve. 

Mass quantities of food consumed. The Christmas Story read. Grandkids too excited to listen. Then it was wild. It was loud. Wrapping was flying. Kids were jumping up and down. Surprises. There was squealing and smiles and a lot of laughter. Pictures were taken. Memories were made.

This morning - peace.

All is right with the world.

Remembering God’s Goodness.  His Gift.  His Son.

From our house to yours, Merry Christmas!”

As I put away Christmas for another year, I ask myself what has changed? I mean, what has changed since I put up the tree a few weeks ago to today, when I put it away? The decorations are gone, the leftovers eaten, and my weight scale is showing a few extra pounds added. I will be settling into the familiar routines again; the start-up of activities will commence in the New Year. Except for pictures to look back on, 2021 will become a memory and the countdown to Christmas 2022 will begin again.

What has changed? Has Christmas become a mere routine? Have I allowed the message and meaning of Christmas to impact my life, or am I boxing it all up like my seasonal decor, to be put away and forgotten until next year? It’s a sobering thought.

I should remember that Christmas must be celebrated throughout the year. It must be a daily remembrance of God’s Goodness, God’s Gift of His Son to me, and to all mankind! I can’t “put away” Christmas, like I do all the ornamentation; the Spirit of Christmas can not and should not be packed away.

Do I truly believe “all is right with the world”? I must, if I believe that to know Jesus is to have His Peace. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27 Jesus is the Prince of Peace!

To embrace Christmas in its fullness is to accept God’s Great Gift of His Son and praise Him everyday!

“For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Let this be my resolution year after year!