I just realized I haven’t written much about Christmas…makes me wonder what’s going on.
A few days ago I googled “Christmas” just to see what would appear. After the obligatory Wikipedia entry, nearly the entire first page of search results dealt with stuff for sale. I started shaking my head in self-righteous judgment of those people who commercialize Christmas.
I started shaking my head…and stopped when I realized WHY I haven’t written much about Christmas. I looked in the mirror, afraid I might see one of those people staring back.
I haven’t focused on Christmas, on the birth of Jesus, because I allowed other things to be more important.
I didn’t intend for the books and jerseys to show up in mid-December. In July, delivery was promised before Thanksgiving so we’d have plenty of time for the whole pre-order/book launch process. I never meant for the first weeks of advent to disappear from my consciousness under an avalanche of excitement and promotion.
See–IT’S NOT MY FAULT!
Well, actually, it is my fault. I choose what gets my attention, or I let someone else choose for me.
I continue to learn: it’s all about balance. I’m not apologizing for selling my books. I believe in my work, and if I don’t promote it, who will? So I hope you’ll visit the store. I appreciate your support.
I also don’t regret the gifts and traditions and decorations that help make Christmas such a magical season. I like food and football and Christmas cards.
But when selling becomes the focus, when presents and parties become the reasons for the season, it’s time to reassess and rebalance.
Jesus didn’t leave heaven and become a helpless baby so I could sell stuff.
Someone’s going to tell me not to beat up on myself. I’m not doing that, I hope.
I’m simply reminding us to keep priorities in order. Let’s celebrate and enjoy the holiday.
But first, let’s remember why it’s a holy day.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12
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