If I could name a bit of tension in our home each Christmas, it would be the type of Christmas tree we choose. Yes, we’re a divided household. Ben prefers artificial trees. I prefer real trees.
There’s a bit of personal history behind this. One of the traditions in my house growing up was that my dad would go and get a potted Christmas tree each year. After Christmas, he would quickly take it down, and off it would go to be planted behind our house. To this day, there is a row of evergreen trees of all sizes behind that home.
So far, in our house, Ben has given in to a real tree each year! (#realchristmastree) Of course, he does the lion’s share of the hard work in getting it set up, which I’m grateful for! But really, who doesn’t love the yummy smell and look of a real Christmas tree? Have you ever smelled a fake tree?
It occurred to me that there’s nothing wrong with either choice, real or artificial. It’s a matter of preference. But when we get down to the Christmas season, I would prefer keeping things real.
This really did happen:
“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary: you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” Luke 1:30-31
“For today in the city of David, there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”) Matthew 1:23
Do you believe that this really did happen? If so, how will it affect your Christmas celebration? Your joy? Your peace? Your love? Christ’s coming to this earth changes everything. This really did happen, and it changes everything!
Here’s the deal: The magical nature of our own version of a Hallmark Christmas can take a more prominent role than what took place in the city of David. Our version of Christmas pales in comparison to what took place in a stable so long ago!
Yet, the reality of life hits us every Christmas and affects us deeply. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or close family member? Are you wishing you could be somewhere, but you can’t? Do you want things to be different in your life? Do you struggle financially to give gifts? Is there a deep “lack” in your life that comes back to haunt you every Christmas? There is obviously much pain at Christmas.
The gift of Christ, Immanuel, is our greatest treasure, not just at Christmas but throughout the entire year. Whether it be a time of celebration or honest brokenness, Jesus is still with us. Jesus still loves us. Jesus still cares. Press in close to Him today. Keep Christmas real with Jesus at your side.
So far, in our house, Ben has given in to a real tree each year! (#realchristmastree) Of course, he does the lion’s share of the hard work in getting it set up, which I’m grateful for! But really, who doesn’t love the yummy smell and look of a real Christmas tree? Have you ever smelled a fake tree?
It occurred to me that there’s nothing wrong with either choice, real or artificial. It’s a matter of preference. But when we get down to the Christmas season, I would prefer keeping things real.
This really did happen:
“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary: you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” Luke 1:30-31
“For today in the city of David, there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”) Matthew 1:23
Do you believe that this really did happen? If so, how will it affect your Christmas celebration? Your joy? Your peace? Your love? Christ’s coming to this earth changes everything. This really did happen, and it changes everything!
Here’s the deal: The magical nature of our own version of a Hallmark Christmas can take a more prominent role than what took place in the city of David. Our version of Christmas pales in comparison to what took place in a stable so long ago!
Yet, the reality of life hits us every Christmas and affects us deeply. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or close family member? Are you wishing you could be somewhere, but you can’t? Do you want things to be different in your life? Do you struggle financially to give gifts? Is there a deep “lack” in your life that comes back to haunt you every Christmas? There is obviously much pain at Christmas.
The gift of Christ, Immanuel, is our greatest treasure, not just at Christmas but throughout the entire year. Whether it be a time of celebration or honest brokenness, Jesus is still with us. Jesus still loves us. Jesus still cares. Press in close to Him today. Keep Christmas real with Jesus at your side.
I can't listen to this song without crying! Christ's birth changes everything! https://www.
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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