I’m sure many of you can agree with me in saying that the Christmas season is the happiest time of year. There just seems to be a little extra joy in the air around this time. People tend to be more cheerful throughout this season. I’m not suggesting that people aren’t cheerful all year round, but I think you get the picture. Here is a question I have been pondering – Why is there greater joy in this season? Perhaps more so than in other seasons? What is the true cause of our heightened cheer during Advent and Christmas?
The answers are varied. For some, it’s because we are getting ready for that homemade casserole at the family reunion that everybody loves. For others, it’s because we are anticipating the thrill of opening presents on Christmas morning. And still for others, it’s because we are looking forward to those cozy winter nights of cuddling up in a warm blanket and watching Christmas movies with a nice cup of hot chocolate. Each of these are wonderful events that we all enjoy.
Perhaps the greatest reason is that we are preparing room for Jesus Christ, the Son of God, to enter the world. The most important factor to keep in consideration for Advent is to make room for our Savior to be born unto us. It is vital that we create time to focus on our faith in such a busy time as this. I know it’s easier said than done, but when we devote ourselves to our faith, we are committing to the key purpose of Advent.
I often find myself guilty of anticipating all the gift giving, movie nights, cookie baking, holiday music, and traditional festivities, a little more than anticipating the birth of Christ. While these are all great things to look forward to, they are not the sole cause for the season. These are just some ideas to reflect upon today. Where is your focus in such a time as this? Are you devoting time to your faith in a season when everything and everyone just seems to be constantly bustling? Taking time to read our devotionals, light our Advent candles, and peacefully sit still to reflect on the One who arrived on that dark night in Bethlehem will increase our joy and help us all to remember the great gift of love and hope that is ours during this season and all year long.
J.D. Tatarian, Ministry Intern
