Keeping The Spirit Of Christmas

Christmas is a difficult time of the year for many of us, but take heart and persevere, and welcome the Son of God with a smile and open arms, for your sake and the ones you love.

"It came to pass, the ancient prophesy,
handed down from days of old,
the birth of a child, a Messiah,
the greatest story ever told."

As we prepare for the coming of the Messiah, this time of the year can be, for many, rather sad and depressing, as memories of Christmases past, good and bad, come flooding back into our lives. To add to this already frustrating period, the American people must contend with a nation suffering and in crisis, both domestically and internationally.

"And the word became flesh, and would dwell among us,
and would die for the sins of man,
and it all did happen, as foretold,
according to the prophets who heralded God's plan."

Yes, this is a difficult time for many of us. And I’m certain by now that you have had just about enough. Hopefully, you haven't reached the breaking point yet and your brain is not ready to implode. But if life seems to be spiraling out of control, take heart as Christmas Day approaches, and we celebrate the birth of the Son of God. I know it has been trying these past few years; just surviving seems to take all your strength.

"Centuries have passed and down through the ages,
the story’s been written on history’s pages,
on that sacred night to all creation,
mankind was forgiven, and offered salvation."

Trying to observe the holiday spirit, and share in the peace and joy of the season may be just too much to ask. But if there is a time to make the effort to put aside the negative feelings and the despair at what was years ago, and reach down deep and find the strength and courage to move forward, this is the time. Be the bearer of glad tidings, and perhaps spread the holiday cheer and spirit of Christmas around to family and friends, even strangers, who may also be melancholy and in need of a strong and positive shoulder to lean on.

"The favored young virgin, the Blessed Mother to be,
traveled with espoused husband in flight,
from the evil of men who would destroy the One,
who would bring into the world truth and light."

For some, what I write here are only mere words on a screen; how could I possibly understand the hardship and pain you're going through? Sometimes the fortitude and courage to find the strength to carry on, again, especially at this time of the year, is too demanding. There are so many things and events to deal with; I can just barely catch my breath.

"Christmas is a time for family and friends,
but while we rejoice, let us pray,
that those who suffer, are burdened and grieving,
will find solace and hope this day."

As I walk the streets of this city and see people without shelter in dirty ragged clothes, sleeping over gratings for warmth from the steam that rises up from the subway below, crumbled up in the doorways of stores and apartment buildings. I notice their weather-beaten faces, and how many of these poor souls are scarred, some with open sores, I am sad and feel empathy and sorrow, but also grateful for there but for the grace of God go I. Over the years, while most passersby ignore these less fortunate, I have come to know many of them, we talk and at times even laugh; it helps them and me. A kind word, especially around Christmas time, can do a world of good for the spirit and the soul.

"And that the spirit of Christmas fills their hearts,
and the birth of the Lord will in them recall,
Christ entered the world to forgive our sins,
and bring salvation to us all."

Not a preacher, and no man of the cloth, not by a long shot, but I have learned and gathered some knowledge over the years. It just doesn’t do any good to while away life and watch it pass you by. So, I say, friends do the best you can, but if for whatever reason you should question and perhaps even doubt the reason and truth of Christmas Day, keep this in mind; the New Testament tells us that over 2000 years ago a baby was born of humble beginnings in a manger of hay. His birth and life were, I believe, the greatest event to have ever occurred in human history.

Since that day, the world changed forever, and Christianity is a manifestation of that birth, and it has survived and grown down through the centuries to become a world religion with over a billion members. There must be something to this, something you can believe in, something that will cause you to cast aside your doubt, and restore your faith and the spirit of Christmas.

"So let us live in the spirit of Christmas each day,
January through December,
and gather together to rejoice and sing,
and to celebrate and remember."

"That Christ entered the world to deliver us,
from our sins, despair and strife,
and to teach us it’s not just a season,
peace is a way of life."