As we meander through the final days of 2024, we may find ourselves putting trash bags stuffed with wrapping paper and empty boxes upon the curb.
Equally stuffed are our bellies of rich treats, followed by our hearts, as feelings from gathering with loved ones linger in empty rooms like our favorite perfume.
Soon enough, presents will find new homes upon hangers, toy bins, cupboards, shelves, and closets. Decorations will return to totes, and the calendar will turn a page.
As we are gifted another year, we are reminded that we are another year older. What shall we do worthwhile in 2025? And who defines ‘worthwhile’?
Are we to pull from the printer a list we created of resolutions, expecting to be more motivated on January 1 than December 31? What lessons did 2024 attempt to teach us, and were we good pupils?
Are “Peace on Earth” and “Goodwill to All” expected to remain a mantle upon our thoughts, or will they be pushed aside as overused holiday sentiments?
What if we stowed the ornaments but kept the spirit of Christmas? Wouldn’t that be a radical move?
What if we acted as if spreading cheer and love was a standard way of doing life every month of the year? Would people look upon us as if we were daft? Maybe. Perhaps. But what if they looked upon us like lights in the darkness?
“You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven,” Matthew 5: 14-16.
Often, we do our best to exchange love more than judgment during Christmas. To this, we must ask ourselves: Did Jesus come, live, die, and be resurrected to save the world for one day, one week, one month, or for eternity?
When we think about the actions that kindle the holiday season, we realize something much bigger and more meaningful is at hand: love, hope, and the promise of eternity. We also realize whose hand guides us.
“For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you,” Isaiah 41:13.
Instead of adjusting to the New Year, may we intentionally affect 2025, becoming living expressions of Christ’s grace, challenging ourselves not to leave love hidden or unexpressed.
As much as changing seasons alter the appearance of the trees, may our lives reflect a changed appearance in us, rooting ourselves in Christ. As such, we will bear fruit worth sharing.
Testimonies of faith and perseverance are born through our pain, passions, victories, and hardships. And these births will be blessed to grow, encouraging others to mature in their faith.
“Instead, encourage each other every day, as long as it’s called ‘today,’ so that none of you become insensitive to God because of sin’s deception,” Hebrews 3:13.
Blessings and joy to you as we come alongside one another, trusting God to carry the torch into a new year.
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” Psalm 119:105.
This column was initially published by CherryRoad Media. ©Tiffany Kaye Chartier.