It could be just me, but it seems as if a lot of people on blogs and in real life seem so somber about Christmas this year. Maybe it's all the flux in the economy, the recent election, or the everyday stressors that can seek to steal our joy. Maybe it's the realization that our priorities during the holidays have been a bit off-base in the past and we are seeking to reform. Advent has almost seemed too serious as if we are contemplating the crucifixion instead of a beautiful birth of Light and Life.
Birthdays are cause for celebration!! I love a great birthday party...when the house is decorated for that special someone, great food is prepared, friends gather, gifts are given, and singing and merriment abound...I am so glad you are born! Sometimes birthday gatherings are simple and heartfelt and meaningful and sometimes you just love the red carpet rolled out with seemingly no expense spared on the food and festivities! Invite a few or invite many, but celebrate well.
So it is with Christmas. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate the Birth of God Incarnate. It can be simple and heartfelt, but keep in mind that there is also nothing wrong with celebrating big either! I am not talking about commercialism and consumerism...sometimes in our attempts to steer clear of those we seem to become stoic in our simplicity. But beautiful decorating and incredible food and lavish gifts can be a glorious celebration of His life and love!
As His birthday approaches, have fun! Worship, give, offer, serve, decorate, and cook with joy and laughter and praise...for unto us a Child is born and to us a Son is given! Find your own rhythm of decorating and gift-giving and celebration...He looks at the heart not the outer appearance! If you give and celebrate simply...do it with joy and unto Him. If you give and celebrate lavishly...do it with joy and unto Him.
No external rules or expectations...just a personal relationship with Him and a birthday celebration from the heart.
Happy Happy Birthday Jesus!!
photo by sudergal
9 comments:
I really like that mindset of joy and freedom! Thanks, Aimee!
Thanks for this reminder, Aimee. I admit, I haven't been very joyous this season. The to-do list has been a bigger priority than celebrating. But, there is still time to change that. Thank you for bringing to attention!
well said, aimee. i agree. party on!
Happy Birthday Jesus!! In Kids church today we had a cake and sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. ;) It was a neat thing! Merry Christmas to you...
I haven't been "around" much, but I've been surprised how little I've really witnessed in the Christmas spirit. Seems like everyone is just going the merry little way.... We have been celebrating!
Hi gal, I have given you an award over at my site...
blessings,
Sarah
Merry Christmas! Celebrating and rejoicing with you!
Loved your post! I wish I had found it BEFORE Christmas...it may have sparked even more joy in my heart. Happy Birthday Jesus...amen!
Amen! Whatever (or in this case, however) you do, do all to the glory of God!!!
Shannon
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