Expectations at Christmas

12-24-2016

Christmas. The day that most families are posting photos of smiling kids standing around a pile of presents. My Facebook feed was full this morning of family photos. I posted a photo of my own children last night.

But, what about the kids without the piles of glittering wrapping paper? What about the families who may have gifts, but no longer have a Daddy (or other relative)? What about those families separated by military service or a job at a store that stays open 365 blessed days a year?

As usual, my biggest struggle today is my own battle with unrealistic expectations. You know, the images in my head of kids playing with new toys, or sitting around a glorious, pinterest-worthy feast? Everyone is smiling. No one holds a grudge. No one breaks out into argument because “she got more mashed potatoes than I did.” We are all guilty of these expectations in some way or another.

What do we do when reality strikes? There are no presents, or there is no feast, or the kids continue to act as they do every other day of the year? Shining new gadgets and toys may forestall the naughtiness for a time. But, by the end of the day reality will come pouring down on us. Either your husband will start talking politics with Uncle George, or the kids will eat too much sugar and come crashing down in a tumult of blood sugar-spiked tears. Or, the toddler will take the baby's new toy . . . and break it. What then?

I am writing this now, to answer that question for myself. What is Christmas really? It's not just a day for glamorous photos in my FB timeline. It's not just about presents. And, let's face it, kids will be kids – even on Christmas. So, what should my realistic expectation be for this Christmas?

Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 

I Cor. 10:31

It doesn't really matter if it's a random Tuesday in February or Christmas Day. Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God. Whether you are celebrating His incarnation with feasting and merriment, or sitting in an apartment fearing that tomorrow you will lose your electricity- Live for the glory of God.

Easier said than done, to be sure.

But, Christ is the only Standard by which we can live. Christ is the only Stable, Static Entity in our ever-transitioning lives. CHRIST!

So, whatever you do -whether you open presents, light candles, eat cake, play with kids, work at your job, cook a meal, go to school, etc – do it for the glory of Christ. Because Christ is the only un-changeable in our lives. Christ never fails.