The most wonderful time of the year; Christmas Series Part 1

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year
With the kids jingle belling

And everyone telling you ‘Be of good cheer’
It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

By Edward Pola and George Wyle, © 1963.

Nothing captures the mood of the season quite like this song made famous by Andy Williams. There’s just something about the wonder and anticipation of Christmas that hangs in the atmosphere, draped across homes, offices, schools, and stores like garlands bedecked with twinkling lights. Even though several poor souls have attempted to Grinch the season away from the rest of us with a twisted form of righteous indignation and lawsuits, nevertheless, this is still the most wonderful time of the year. And the majority of us know it—the child within each one of us can’t help but hope for snow as we gaze out at the red and green, silver and gold fantasy of ornaments and lights, trees and glitter, sparkling on every corner of every street.

Many hearts open a bit wider at this time of year. Many—even those who don’t know the Lord intimately—hope for the promised cheer of the season to wrap them like a blanket and transport their heavy hearts to a brighter, kinder, more welcoming place. They’ve been disappointed so many times before; maybe this year will be different. Maybe this year they’ll be able to capture the joy and the essence of peace on earth, good will toward men. Maybe, just maybe…

My prayer is that you and I will be empowered by the One who is the reason for the season, not only to enjoy His presence and peace ourselves this season, but to be carriers of the message of His warm kindness and life-changing cheer to others as well. Despite the attacks against Christmas, I believe that the majority of those who do not know Jesus as Lord recognize that there’s something very special about this Man who was born to a virgin, wrapped in swaddling clothes, placed in a manger, and visited by shepherds and wise men.

I believe most people long for the Christmas story to be true; you need not be intimidated by the fact that you know it is true. Agree with me that both you and I will be directed by the Spirit of God throughout the season as we go about our daily lives. Pray that each of us have divine appointments ornamenting our days as we carry the message of the cheer of Christ in our hearts, eyes, smiles, and words.

And as you carry His presence with you like a light shining in a dark place, He will most certainly direct your steps.

Be of good cheer during this most wonderful time of the year!

Dorothy

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. Isaiah 9:2

© 2015, Dorothy Frick