I remember: Reflections on Christmas

by Jonathan Moore

I remember Christmastime as a child. I was not like your average child (in more ways than one, but lets not loose focus already…). I would get up late at night after my parents had fallen asleep and sneak out into the living room. But rather than sorting through the presents and devising clever ways of pealing back the wrapping paper (without leaving any clues), I’d turn on the tree lights, and lay down on the thick carpet. I’d stare at the ceiling in wonder, fascinated by the combinations of shapes and colors.

I remember how wonderful snow was as a child. The first snow was the best day of the fall. There was nothing like waking up to the sound of the snow plough coming down our street. My brother and I would slip our moonboots on over the bread sacks that covered our feet, and run out to our dead end street where the snowplows have left us the best possible beginning to the year’s most amazing snow fort. As the big flakes keep coming down I watch them in wonder, “No two alike!? Really!? Wow!!”

So it’s Christmas now, I’m 29, and I wonder where the wonder’s gone. We chose not to put up any decorations this year, too much hassle and what the cats don’t knock down they chew in half. Then there’s the electric bill for the lights, but we’ll chalk it up to being “green”. I slip down the front stairs and slide down the sidewalk to clear off all the snow that’s piled up on my car overnight. First snow of the year and I’m already looking forward to Spring.

When I was asked to write a column about Christmas, numerous topics sprung to mind. Should we say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays? With all the consumerism, should we just call it Shopmas? The MTS in me thought about expounding on the theological difficulties in dealing with God becoming a man, or examining the development of the Christmas holiday throughout church history. But I wondered if I was missing something, and I realized that I was missing what most of us are missing: wonder.

That is my challenge to you this Christmas, bring back the wonder. The next time someone says “Happy Holidays” to you, don’t question their religion. Instead wonder how it is that most of the world is celebrating something during this time of the year. The next time you stop at Meijer for a gallon of milk and wait ½ hour to check out, don’t judge America’s consumerism. Instead, wonder about a time of year where generosity overflows to friends, family, and the needy. As you sit with your congregation on Christmas Eve, stop judging the song’s weak theology or the preacher’s incorrect use of the four-page method. Look at the kids around you, witness their example, and bring back the wonder.

Remember again the play of Christmas lights on the ceiling. Remember the first snow. Remember the joy of celebration. Let go of your agendas and remember how a pregnant virgin gave birth to the God of all creation, who would live, die, and rise again for our salvation. Remember, and just sit, and wonder.

Want to respond to this article? Send your letter to letters@kerux.org; see the guidelines for more information.