Christmas is a strange time of year.
Over the top decorations, distinctly sentimental (and sometimes just mental) music, ostentatious holidays, too much food and snowflakes hanging in 33 degree heat are just a few crazy elements.
I know families who are flying to Mauritius and others going skiing in Europe. Some people are getting iPhones for Christmas, while some are expecting no more than socks. The shops are brimming with people buying gifts that will likely be swapped within the next month.
Having had the privilege of experiencing a white Christmas with family in Canada, I can say that there definitely are some traditions that only belong in the snow. Turkey definitely is tastier in the winter. Spiced warm ciders and hot puddings are a welcome indulgence when you’re watching snow falling outside the dining room window. Lights on trees are effective because the sun goes down at 5pm and having a chimney for Santa to squeeze down is common because of the need for fires to keep people warm.
I absolutely love Christmas food. Whether it’s gammon, turkey, mince pies or Christmas cake – the spiced smells wafting from the kitchen would be enough to make anyone feel cozy. The actual amount of food prepared, eaten and thrown out is pretty appalling. In many families, food means celebration. But it can go too far very quickly. I normally find myself too hot, too full and extremely tired on a Christmas afternoon.
Spending is definitely another huge factor of this season. Shops capitalise on the pressure to buy the perfect gift for every member of your extended family. The price of Christmas crackers are borderline robbery. In Western culture there is no other time of year where tradition runs as deep with as much cost involved. Christmas bonuses allow for this extravagance, which is not completely misplaced.
Giving gifts is definitely a love language I can identify with. Wrapping something that is meaningful and exciting up and giving it to someone you care about is extremely satisfying! But buying expensive things out of obligation has become a default for many people.
Right now you may think I’m going to go conclude with some calm story about the true meaning of Christmas – about family, community, Jesus and peace on earth. But that is a tired and redundant argument that hasn’t got us anywhere. Is Christmas a ridiculous season? Yes. Are there bad things about it? Yes. Are there good aspects of it? Yes. I think it is up to every person to ensure that whatever they do, they make sure it is special.
We have the opportunity to be intentional about what matters to us. Behind all the traditions and family politics, marketing campaigns and food drives, I hope you find meaning that is ground in gratitude and generosity.
Relationships are the key to a good Christmas. And are definitely a key to a better life. If you are feeling alienated, alone, misunderstood or just different – I know someone who will definitely help your life go forwards. It may be hard for you to belive, but Jesus Christ is alive and wanting to have a relationship with you. I don’t know if you go to church on Christmas day or not, but church is also a community of people who will encourage you and be up to doing the journey of life with you! My church has become my home. The people in church have become my family. If you are wanting to get to know Jesus – not just know about him – or want to find a great church near you, click on the link below.