Neale Donald Walsch wrote on Christmas Day,
I believe God wants you to knowthat
the reason so much of humanity commemorates
this day is that so much of
humanity seeks to give and receive love.
During this holy time, know that all times are holy,
That every religion holds truth,
that each tradition is sacred,
and that it is in the simple sharing of love that
we make our beliefs come alive, and our dreams come true.
Years ago, I was so into Christmas that I had four trees in our house. We had the main tree in the family room, a smaller table-top tree in the living room, a four-foot Victorian style tree in our master bedroom, and a 3 foot tree in our daughter’s bedroom. In the main bath the shower curtain was swapped out for a Christmas motif, the toilet seat cover had Santa on it, and even the tissue box was in the style of a gingerbread house.
Shopping and wrapping and baking occupied every free waking moment for weeks and weeks….
What a welcome contrast to now hold the awareness of this season as one about giving and receiving love.
Do you notice how much more considerate drivers can be as the hustle and bustle reaches a fever pitch?
What about those who buy for a Christmas family, have a tree planted in a national forest, or provide chicks or sheep through Heifer International?
Over the past many years, as I have found myself on a much more inner journey, I can see it all with appreciation. I appreciate those who are true to what has heart and meaning for them. While out doing the last-minute shopping for stocking stuffers with my daughter, it was tender to remember all with love.
I remember the Christmas plays at school, the candlelight services at church, the family dinners at with my mom and dad and sisters and our kids. I remember the Christmas when I was five. My dad’s boss provided our Christmas of previously-loved toys.
All these memories are precious gifts. Nothing bought or wrapped or delivered compares. Faith, hope, and love—the greatest of these is love.
As Neale Donald Walsch finishes his message for the day:
Let this Christmas Day remind us that Christ came to
invite us to offer love to all humankind, and to
open the door of God’s kingdom to every soul.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
