Season- definition (dictionary.com)
to give relish or a certain character to.
(At 12 a.m., it says it's the 26th of December, but calendar law dictates that Christmas is today and not on Sunday, which is part of the weekend. So, Merry Christmas! (And please keep in mind that this should have gone up on the 25th, but the holidays are still here, so let's get started.)
Christmas was considered to be somewhat of a controversy, albeit my favorite one. The food, the music, the family, and even the atmosphere were things I never failed to appreciate. And, while it is widely debated whether Jesus Christ was born on that day, he is still widely celebrated. I might add that I have long ago learned (as should any true Christian) that Jesus should not be merely celebrated on a set day but praised every day. Regardless of opinion, some people still persist, rationalize, and say they want to observe the true meaning of Christmas, the "Christ" in Christmas, but for me, Christmas exemplifies love. The Christ in Christmas should never and could never be erased, for God is love, and God is ever present. So the Christmas concerts, the family meals, the Sunday best outfits, and even the festiveness on the streets—I seldom loathe them as long as there is peace and the fruits of the spirit and the purity the Lord wants us to reap and possess. It's undeniable, however, that while the majority of the world celebrates, the less fortunate dread the day that is paraded before them. And because of this reason alone, it leaves me to acknowledge that we can help make Christmas a bit more special for many others. You may wonder why this should be your top priority and what you can do to help in an inflationary society. But let's take a look at these scenarios to highlight exactly how seclusion during Christmas may affect those around us.
Imagine going to a social event but not being able to drink or eat because you're allergic to everything being served, or even being qualified for a sporting event but unable to participate due to having the incorrect gear. It's similar with Christmas and the holidays as a whole: it's a global thing to which anyone should have access, but realistically not everyone can partake for multiple reasons, including debt, bad jobs, homelessness, other responsibilities, lack of time, and so much more! And now I'm not saying that every single person who doesn't have an amazing or extravagant holiday has an issue with it, nor am I saying anyone should do more than they can, but rather what they can. Additionally, if all of what we mostly cherish is love, joy, happiness, and sharing, then there are so many around us we can do so with.
The man on the road asking for some help to buy a meal
Those who do fundraisers to help others get a meal
Purchasing toys for less fortunate kids
Purchasing toys for kids in your family or even gifting someone a card
Caroling for the shut-ins (even in the Caribbean)
Helping someone else to cook
Giving someone something from what you've cooked
Giving away treats like ice cream, toys, baking fruit cakes, and giving a friend
inviting someone home for dinner
Small things that will not even deplete your savings will help to create a smile and a sense of belonging, and while this may sound like an advertisement, I assure you that it can be proven to be a way to communicate so many things! Things such as the fact that Christmas can be for everyone and that the love of God is still existential in his people.
You might say it's one day, but for others, it's a day they've been uninvited to and can't enjoy. Be the one to extend the invitation with small gestures. To add savor to Christmas, all you need is God, yourself, something you already possess, and an open heart.
Scripture references:
Philippians 4:8 KJV
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
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