Twas the Day After Christmas

Twas the day after Christmas, and all through the house,
Everyone was still sleeping, yes even that mouse.

The gifts were all opened, and some already forgot.
We couldn't remember just why they'd been bought.

The wrapping was stuffed in trash bags stashed outdoors,
And ribbons and bows saved for next year's gift tours.

It was early that morning when I woke and arose,
The house was still quiet, a time for repose.

Just I and the dogs sat in quiet remembrance
Of yesterday's fun, food, and gift-giving dance.

Of family and friends, of cards and phone calls,
Of lights and music, ornaments and decked halls.

It was fun, to be sure, and a wonderful day,
But now I wondered, has it all gone away?

For Christmas was over, another year past,
And as always, it seemed it just didn't last.

But what to my wondering heart did appear?
A thought reminded it was more than time of year.

No, Christmas was not over, and never would be.
No, Christmas was celebrating our Savior, you see.

And Jesus, who lives in believing hearts, I can say
Is always and ever alive, no matter the day.

Through crisis, through suffering, through joy and through pain,
Through good times and bad times, through loss and through gain.

No matter what life seems to bring through the year,
We can know, without doubt, that our Savior is here.

So as decor comes down and is stowed for a while,
Remember Christmas isn't over, and think with a smile,

For unto us a Child is born, to us the Prince of peace.
And in remembering, may your joy and peace increase.

(c) 2009 Sauni Rinehart

Counting Down

Christmas is just a week away! And I have to say...I have somewhat mixed feelings. Part of me is so looking forward to our church's Christmas Eve service and honoring the birth of Christ.

But another part of me is feeling quite melancholy.

It's our first Christmas without Ruth, and for the very first time, we won't be with any family on Christmas Day.

It's going to be strange. We've been invited to have dinner with a dear friend of mine, but it won't be the same.

May I encourage you? If you're going to spend time with family on this special day, cherish them. Don't let the stress of the season weigh you down. Just enjoy being with the people you love. You'd miss them if you weren't with them.

Believe me.

It's Beginning to Look...

I can't help it. I'm a Christmas geek. Certifiably. I'm one of those who decorates the day Saturday after Thanksgiving and envelop the entire first floor of my home with decorations.

I really can't help it. And I really don't want to!

As I sit here in my living room looking at one of the two trees in my home, I just love how having all the fuss around me gives me such joy.

There's something about this season that speaks to my heart--and the hearts of many others. Something joyful. Something peaceful.

But there's something about what's happened to this season that hurts my heart. We live in a culture that doesn't seem to understand that Christmas isn't--for many of us--just another holiday.

Celebrate what you will, but would it be okay for me to celebrate Christmas for what I believe with all I am is the right reason? Is it all right for me to wish you a Merry Christmas? Would you mind if I celebrate because I believe Christmas is Christ-mas--a celebration of Christ?

Just wondering.