The Christmas season is upon us once again. Christmas is my favourite season of the year, a time of celebration, giving, music and of course, food. It is a beautiful Christian tradition that we have managed to hold onto despite it often times being under siege.
There are many things to highlight that are important to the Christmas season, a few of which I’ve already noted, but without a doubt one of the most important aspects would be thankfulness.
There is a powerful verse found in the Bible that first speaks of the peace of Christ and ends with these simple yet profound words: “Be ye thankful.” (Collossians 3:15).
Possessing a thankful attitude is one of the most powerful and important characteristics that an individual can have. Thankfulness opens your eyes to the good that surrounds you and helps you take your eyes off of problems that would try to consume you.
When we are unthankful we focus on sometimes the smallest of dilemmas and forget about just how good we actually have it. Thankfulness, however, takes us out of the place of self-focus and brings us to a place where we look to give rather than take.
We are reminded, especially at this time of year, the words of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than it is to receive.”
I realize that Christmastime can also be a trying time for some who remember loved ones who have passed on and wish they were here. Having lost a family member myself during the Christmas season I can relate to some of what this does feel like.
Even though it may be trying for some, I pray that we all can focus and find something to be thankful for this year. If you can find no other thing, then let me remind you of this: the angels of heaven rejoiced at the birth of a Saviour born in a manger who would offer Himself for the forgiveness of our sins.
If we could rejoice in nothing else, let us rejoice in this: that peace has come and His name is Jesus.
Merry Christmas Kamsack. May this Christmas season be filled with joy as we offer thanks to God and to each other. I promise you this: despite your circumstances, if you will look you can find something to be thankful for.
