The Joy and Wonder of the Season
Dec 16, 2009
“BAH! HUMBUG!” may have been Ebenezer Scrooge’s response to Christmas, but it is not the attitude of most people I know. I do, however, know many people who seem to have lost the joy and wonder of the season.
Why? Well, I think some of the reasons are:
- Commercialism—The marketing of the Christmas season seems to begin earlier every year and seems to take away from the essence of the season. We used to have a large sign that we placed on our Troy Campus that was about 4 feet high and 30 feet long that read, “Jesus is the Reason for the Season.” That is an old saying that is still true, but is being pushed aside by commercialism.
- Over Commitment—Extra school and community work, family and even church activities may sometimes lead individuals and families to feel overwhelmed and exhausted.
- Familiarization—Our information age with all of the high tech communication tools such as TV, Internet, blogs, Twitter, and what seems to be an insatiable desire for the newest and fastest seems to somehow numb us to the greatest news story ever told—“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord … .”
I am not immune to these distractions, but being around my grandchildren and the children in the care of our Children’s Homes brings a contagious and refreshing sense of awe and a realignment of priorities.
On behalf of the children in our care, I want to thank you for providing a place of safety filled with love and a place where they can experience all of the hope that we have in Christ Jesus. On behalf of our children and staff, I want to wish you and your loved ones a very MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Paul Miller, Children’s Homes
P.S.—Even as we prepare for Christmas, we are also planning for the New Year with all
of its challenges and opportunities for continued ministry to children and families.
Please be praying for us as we plan to accomplish more with a smaller budget.