John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave is one and only Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." ESV
We did our annual Christmas de-decorating today. It is a lot of work, but we were ready to get the house back to its pre-Christmas condition. Our live tree was so dry that when we took it through the living room it sounded like a rain stick. We had a lot of needles to clean up, for sure, but we did laugh about it. (Our tree had actually stopped taking up water well before Christmas day.)
We had a snowstorm yesterday, so as my husband was clearing snow this morning, I gathered up the house decorations that we put all over and arranged them on the kitchen island. I have discovered that this is very helpful to the process. As I was lifting ducks, snowmen, candles, trees, and all manner of kooky items off shelves and walls, I looked at one item differently than I ever had. We have many nativities all around our house. but one wall hanging depicts Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus together. I was thinking how much I love it and how sad I always am when it is packed away every year. Then I realized I didn't have to. Why couldn't I keep this beautiful image of the birth of my Savior up year-round? My husband and I have many crosses, verses, and items that reflect our faith surrounding us in every room; we have everything but a nativity. So now, that sculptural wall hanging will reside with the carved bust we have of Jesus', and our crucifixion/resurrection cross.
I wonder why so many of us only break out our nativities when we celebrate the birth of Jesus? I know that, today, I have changed my thinking around this act. Why shouldn't I concentrate on all of the parts of my Savior's life; the wonder of Christ's birth, glory of His ministry, deep sorrow of His death, and majesty of His resurrection. From now on our nativity will stay out all year long. I am grateful when God gives me these small times of clarity and frees me to do the unconventional. Maybe I will start a movement, #freeyournativity365.
1 comment:
There are quite a few decorations that I leave up all year long and they all depict the Holy Family. It is a blessing to be reminded of their sacrifice and never faltering faith every day!!
I do wish and some day I will have it - a place to display my Nativity all year long. I just love that reminder of the shepherds, and kings, and angels who all gathered in Bethlehem to receive our Lord.
Thanks for sharing Lehann!!
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