Not only is it Advent, but we are also right in the middle of card season as well. Whether or not you regularly write a Christmas letter or send many cards out, surely you receive a few in the mail or by email each year. Do you take the time to read each one? With the advent of social media and email, maybe it is not as labor intensive as mailing dozens of cards, but you can still send well wishes to those you like. Each year, I always look forward to reading a little bit of what friends and family have experienced over the past year and seeing how they change in some of the traditional family photos. Do you have any traditions related to Christmas Cards?
I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3
It doesn’t take many words to get the mood for what people have felt and experienced in a few short paragraphs. Some may just be a list of accomplishments, where everyone went for vacation, and what kids and grandkids are doing now. Others can express joy at milestones in life, sadness in the death of loved ones, and sharing other significant life events. Can you sum up the highlights and lows of your past year in a couple of paragraphs that fit on one page? It is actually not a bad practice. Take a few minutes to reflect and sum up the past year and share to the level you are willing with friends and maybe even strangers.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Romans 12:15
I used to look forward each year to writing a letter and sending it to a variety of people. But as I was not able to put one together one year, it was not as much a priority the following years and did not happen. I still tried to write a personal note in most cards and wished more than just the printed greeting. As I was growing up, we would tape each card to the wall and watch as the collection grew through the month of December. It was a fun tradition. I still enjoy looking back at some of the cards and letters I have received years ago.
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:15
As you get each card or letter this year, say a small prayer for the person who sent it. Appreciate each of the relationships you have and bless them in some small or great way with your words and actions through the coming year. May you continue to reflect the love of Christ in your life more each year.
Strength and Courage in Christ,
Clark
