It didn't surprise me but it motivated me! During a recent shopping trip, I walked toward the lawn and garden department only to realize it is now the Christmas department! As a child, stores didn't display such merchandise until the day after Thanksgiving. Near the beginning of October, I saw Christmas trees, decorations and supplies. Now that's anticipation.
I admit it. I usually begin playing Christmas music, making lists and plans in September. It's an old habit. During many years when I wrote Christmas scripts, directed Christmas musicals or was involved in singing or playing in Christmas programs, it was necessary to plan months ahead. We couldn't wait until the last minute to adequately prepare. Nor have I ever been a person who enjoys last minute shopping. It is always beneficial to plan ahead of schedule.
Personally, though, I still find it interesting to see Christmas promotions in October. However, I began thinking...
If we are eager to promote seasons so prematurely...if we want to prepare ahead of time for special events and celebrations, wouldn't it be much more important to prepare for The Day when our Lord returns? We spend months preparing for special times, holidays or opportunities in our lives, yet we often delay preparing our lives for a Day that will introduce us to eternity! It seems inconsistent for businesses to encourage us to plan ahead while our culture promotes living for today with no regard for eternal destinations.
May our growing enthusiasm for holidays, vacations and special events be enjoyable. May we also be continually aware of a new season...an eternal one...that brings hope and healing! Imagine seeing our Precious Lord and loved ones in a glorious place of no more tears, no more sorrow, no more night and no more pain. Now that's wonderful anticipation! ♥~thl
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." John 14: 1>4
No comments:
Post a Comment