Keeping Christmas

By now, maybe you've taken down your Christmas tree. I know there are organized people who promptly pull out their Christmas decor the day after Thanksgiving and then pack it away on the day after Christmas.

I'm not one of those people.

But, even after several weeks of twinkling lights decorating the living room, I'm never quite ready to give up the multicolored dreamland.

I'm never quite ready to pack away the angel tree topper ...

... or turn off the light on the Noel that decorates my piano during the holidays.

Even as a child, I remember the letdown after Christmas. It didn't have anything to do with whether I'd gotten everything on my wish list. It was just that slight feeling of melancholy, a sadness at saying goodbye to that "hap-happiest season of all," as the song goes.

It's the most wonderful time of the year
With the kids jingle-belling
And everyone telling you
Be of good cheer
It's the most wonderful time of the year

It's the hap-happiest season of all
With those holiday greetings
And great happy meetings
When friends come to call
It's the hap-happiest season of all

But, even as I haul the boxes of decorations to the basement, I need to remember not to let go of the spirit of Christmas. Even if I must take down the twinkle of lights in my living room, I can let the Light of the World continue to shine in my heart, mind and soul as we enter a new year.
"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

So how do we keep that Light when the world seems like a very dark place some days? A couple of my Facebook friends have recently posted a link showing a Gratitude Jar.

This January, as we look back and keep Christmas in our hearts, maybe these gratitude notes would help us to look ahead and look all around us to recognize the good that happens and the blessings that God provides each and every day. 

Then, next New Year's Eve, we could look back on all those blessings and pour them out, giving thanks all over again. 

Will you join me? 

***

One these cold days of January, some stick-to-your-ribs pasta dishes may have your family giving thanks.

 Try this Nacho Pasta Bake

Serve the Lasagna Soup with toasted, cheesy French bread for a hearty meal.

Or serve this hearty Lasagna Soup.