Christmas will be here soon, and I am eager to celebrate the sacred seasons with you. As God became one with us through the humanity of Jesus, our lives become more sacred through the divinity of Jesus. Just stop and think about the incredible reality that God’s life is entwined with our life. But our recognition of that reality will NOT happen unless we prepare for Christmas. I have a few simple suggestions so that this will be the most blessed Christmas you ever celebrated.
Participate—Take advantage of one of the many opportunities to participate in a community event to prepare for Christmas. Weekday Mass or participation in the Guadalupe activities are just two great ways to grow closer to God as we further our relationships in the parish community.
Simplify—Expensive gifts are a feeble way of expressing your love to others. TELL people you love them in a meaningful way and let a simple gift be a token expression of that love. Also remember how depressing the January and February credit card bills are when you overextend yourself!
Reflection—Spend some time in private prayer every day even if it’s just quieting your mind for five minutes and having a conversation with God. Use the meditation books given out at church. Try doing that twice a day and see how it changes your demeanor in general.
Christmas will be WONDERFUL if you prepare well. It will just be another disappointment if you prepare by getting caught up in the materialistic hysteria of the commercial Christmas. Make your choice. I am looking forward to seeing how you decide.