Gary and I just got home from the Christmas Eve service at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Appleton. The feeling of sacred community is still with me as I reflect on the service and recall my years of membership withthis dynamic and loving group of people. Singing Silent Night with only the lights of the candles we hold is the essence of Christmas for me. It speaks of the peace, the joy, and the love of the season. It takes me beyond the warmth of friendship and into a more spiritual space.
As we remember the story of Jesus’ birth and think of how we celebrate Christmas, it also takes us back to the earlier Christmases of our childhoods. On the ride back home we talk about the differences, how we and the season have changed.
Most obvious is the evolution to the commercialism. Leaving church in the cloak of hope and joy was transformed to awe of a different sort as we drove past Walmart and Target, both open and heavily trafficked on Christmas Eve. The giant blow-up Santas and Snowmen waved at us as we made our way home. Houses sparkled with thousands of lights. We were seeing the social side of Christmas, the secular celebrations of families and neighborhoods.
So which of these is Christmas? Can it be both? There are lots of presents under our tree that seem to indicate that at this house it can be a balance. We can love the time of miracles and love the sometimes gaudy displays and presents. It is all Christmas, it is all an expression of the Season and a celebration of the love that surrounds us at this time of year.
My wish is that you find the love, the joy and the peace of Christmas wherever you look this season. That you hold the possibility of miracles close to your heart.
Merry Christmas!
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