Finding Christmas

While sorting through St. James’s mountains of Christmas carols to select the perfect ones for our popular annual program, I had a Dickensian recollection of Christmas’ spirit past.

Oh, I’m not thinking of finding a perfect Christmas tree. Nor of discovering a beautiful setting to celebrate Christmas. Nor the satisfaction of finding the perfect gift for a loved one. I’m thinking of the wonder and joy experienced at Christmas as a child. Somehow the Christmas feeling becomes very elusive after we reach adolescence. Occasionally as young adults, when we are surprised by a gift that comes from a loved one we haven’t seen for some time, that warm glow tingles the heart again. The sheer glee of a child rushing into their parent’s bedroom and shouting: “He did come! He did come!” may also rekindle that flame.

Worries about the safety and wholesomeness of our community and world can make Christmas spirit seem a distant memory. Illness and sorrow become looming barriers, making it hard to remember that Christmas can be filled with joy. Can Christmas ever be found again?

It can’t be found in food or cards or gifts, although they bring a smile and a breath of cheer to the heart. Warm visits from friends and family can restore hope that the blaze of Christmas might ignite in our hearts again.

Perhaps Buddy’s quote from the movie Elf gives a clue to the key to finding Christmas: “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” In the movie, singing Christmas carols in a public place brings the magic of Christmas to life. However, to rekindle the true spirit of Christmas, the singing must focus on Christ. His birth sparked angel choirs to miraculously appear to shepherds, and their song led to the manger. When the shepherds worshipped Christ, they were filled with great wonder and joy which they quickly shared with everyone.

Tapping ruby slippers together and whispering “Christmas” won’t transport us to the manger, but singing Christ-carols loudly in church just might. And the true spirit of Christmas might suddenly spark into a blazing reality. God sent his only son into a broken world that we might be restored to the life he planned for us. Though temporarily fraught with anguish, it will ultimately be a life of peace, love, and joy, for eternity. And we will live with shining Christmas spirit every day of our lives … forever.

Searching for Christmas? Our community has many churches. Find one near you and sing carols loud and clear. Help bring the joy of Christmas to everyone in our community.

If you don’t have a church home, please visit us as St. James. The Christmas story will be read from the Bible. Songs by the choir, with plenty of opportunities to sing favorite carols together, will underscore the readings. Keyboard artist Mary Ann Hatfield and cellist Luke Huser will provide beautiful accompaniment. St. James’ Episcopal Church La Grange across from the H-E-B. December 24, 5 p.m. Dress is casual.