Treasures of the season

Treasures of the season

This is the time of year when foliage is caramelized in color. Flecks of the sun fall upon the ground in leaves infused with pigments of mulled wine. A fragrance in the air oscillates from firewood to a faint, sweet aroma of something from beyond that only appears this time of year.

December offers a glimpse of peace on earth as voices join and amplify goodwill towards our brothers and sisters. Society engages in advocating for those in need, and in these acts of altruism, we become aware of the strength born of working together for something greater than being right or proving another wrong.

Lights shine through windows of residences — Christmas trees and menorah candles — reminders of beliefs and traditions. We see decorations outlining the homes of people we have never met, even though we call them neighbors.

Pantries are stocked with ingredients for recipes that have been passed down from one loved one to another, some of whom are no longer with us. This time of year, especially, we feel them missing from us.

With limited budgets, we endeavor to choose gifts that not only reflect the recipient's personality and preferences but also convey our heartfelt emotions. Our hope is that the receiver remembers our love long after the gift has lost its luster.

Anticipated days seem to take too long to arrive and end much too soon. But for a brief time, glitter from wrapping paper powders the floors as we dance in the living room to Christmas music.

Little hands take turns pinning ornaments to advent calendars, not to count the days that have passed but to look forward to what is ahead. Ah, what a beautiful thought this is alone, for all ages.

Mornings this time of year bring a chill to the air and warmth to the soul. We sip our coffee a little slower, taking in the majesty of the moment, even if what we see is routine and messy. Something about this time of year makes even the mundane feel magical. We cultivate a more profound vision — the ability to linger in the ether of thankfulness.

What an honor to be fully present, praising God in the time we are gifted. You already know that quality time is one of the greatest gifts we can give one another. What a privilege to keep company with another — someone we hold dear in a temporary life where we cannot control the effects of time.

Our scars and wrinkles do not prohibit us from reaching out, from touching life to life. Nor do our proclivities exclude us from the opportunity to make love within our living — in all the many ways love can be expressed.

December is indeed a month of shedding, from the trees to our selfish bents… we fall upon the threshing floor of grace. Here, treasures of the season are gleaned: Christ, love, relationship, empathy, giving, gratitude, forgiveness, joy, beauty, healing, hope, peace, purpose, and passion.

Dear reader, as we come to the end of another year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for journeying with me as brothers and sisters in Christ. I pray that you and your loved ones rest in the presence and power of God today and always.

With warmest wishes, Merry Christmas!