There has been a recurring message circulating social media platforms throughout the Christmas season, in which the shared message goes something like, “As an adult I’ve realized that the Christmas magic I felt as a kid was really just a mom who loved me so much.” While this message resonates with each mom, who truly just wants to do everything in their power to ensure their children experience the joy of the season; this has led to widespread overwhelm, leaving mothers to feel less-than if they’re unable to do all of the things, having every evening in December filled with festivity in some form or fashion. As a result there is another message circulating, that encourages a redefining of the Christmas magic we’ve grown to believe our children must experience if they are to understand, love and truly experience the Christmas season.
This message is more of a plea for simplicity, the theme of which sounds something like, “Holiday wish list: less gifts, more memories; less busyness, more peace; less stress, more joy; less chaos, more calm; less excess, more gratitude.” The goal of both of these messages are similar, both seek to share the joy of the season with their children; however, the suggested means required to achieve said joy is juxtaposed. Is it possible for a child to find joy in a Christmas season rooted in simplicity? One filled with wood burning in the fireplace, while the kids play board games on the living room floor with warm cocoa just within arms reach? A season filled with Christmas movies at home rather than the rat race of community festivities and Santa sightings? A season that seeks to imitate the humble love that was shared with the world as the angels proclaimed the birth of our Savior; God in flesh, born in a manger.
As we examine the hearts behind each idea, let us first remember Luke 10:38-42
“38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus[a] entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary.[b] Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
While there is nothing inherently wrong with participating in the festivities of the Christmas season, we must be aware of the temptation to be overcome by the commotion, and in doing so lose sight of why it’s important to us in the first place. Let us approach the Christmas season with intention, aware of the temptation to embrace the heart of Martha; distracted and overwhelmed by the unnecessary details. And let us be intentional to embrace the spirit of Mary, seeking to meditate on the reason for the season. Putting on an attitude of humility and simplicity that allows us the time to sit and reflect on the humble love and joy of the season; and let us share this with our children. The Gospel is the greatest gift we can share with our children, and the only one that will last.
