When December 25TH Doesn’t Feel Like Christmas

I do not know when it happened. Maybe it was a gradual change. Today is December 25^th, but it sure does not seem like Christmas. It seems like very few days with this particular date feel like Christmas anymore.  

I am certain my work schedule over the last few years has something to do with it. I have worked on either Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or a day close enough that would hinder the family from getting together. I am not complaining about my job or jobs the last few years. I am thankful to have them. I just cannot wait until next year when I should have an opportunity to spend the day with at least part of my family. 

We have already exchanged gifts. Some were given in November, and some were given out last night. With the way things felt this season, wrapping the gifts was not even important. Some were even given to the recipient right out of the box in which they were delivered.

It is not that we did not try to get in the spirit of Christmas. We decorated the inside of the house leaving the outside undone this year. Some Christmas shows were watched, though mostly alone. We went to see a pathetic light display that screamed, “Why did I waste my gas to come to see this.” Of course, we also drank eggnog on several occasions. 

There will be no Christmas meal at my house this year. At least it will not include turkey, cranberry sauce, or any other traditional course. We will not be together to enjoy a meal. I did not see one candy cane at my house unless someone brought them, and I did not see them. 

I have heard it said many times that Christmas is about family. Well, then today, December 25, does not seem to be Christmas. However, we did celebrate Christmas with part of the family in November and with some others a couple of nights ago. I love spending time with my family. 

Tradition says Christmas is to be celebrated on December 25^th. That does not always work for me. Christmas is a time of giving. It is a time to be with family. It is a time to celebrate the birth of my Savior. These things should not only be done on December 25^th. They should continue throughout the year. 

There are many opportunities to give. Some gifts can be wrapped and given for no reason other than “because.” Other gifts cannot be wrapped. They may be an ear to hear, a shoulder to cry on, or even just a visit.

We do not need holidays, weddings, or funerals to be with family. We should try to get together just because we love each other. Play a game of horseshoes, take a ride to the beach, or get together for dinner or a cup of coffee. We do not need excuses to be a family.

Celebrating the birth of Jesus should be a regular event. We do not even know the exact day that he was born. We can celebrate life with Him all year long. He came to connect us to the Father. We are in the family of God. Spend time with him. Be in his presence.  

December 25^th does not feel like Christmas today, but every day can be Christmas Day.