Jesus is the reason for the season. There is no denying that, but there is something more, something deeper that has crystallized for me this year. God gave us Himself in Jesus, bonded forever with humanity through Mary, but it doesn’t mean a thing unless we choose to accept Him. There it is: acceptance and free choice. What a Christmas gift; a double-edged sword.
Giving gifts is a natural extension of love, gratitude, and friendship and isn't limited to Christmas and birthdays. In its purest form it has nothing to do with commercialism or monetary value or tradition, but has everything to do with effort, time, and thoughtfulness. It could be an ugly tie meant to make the receiver laugh, a favorite dessert, or a thoughtful, handwritten note of appreciation. It could even be resentfully climbing a ladder to help decorate when you absolutely hate the job you are always given. Yet, giving isn’t complete without acceptance and both require free will, free choice.
Mom turned 97 last month. Although she expressed pride at reaching this age, she also noted quietly that the aunt who raised her died at 97. I hoped she wouldn’t dwell on it, but last week she commented that, although it was up to God, she figured this would be her last Christmas and maybe she would just give money and forget about trying to send cards or buy gifts. I kept putting out decorations and wrapping gifts and told her that she could do whatever she wanted, but that I would be free to take her to town any day that week. Three days later we made our trek through several stores with the “shopping chair” (wheel chair) and she picked out gifts and began talking about sending Christmas cards when we got home. What a difference attitude makes. We came home tired, but triumphant. When people unwrap her gifts this year, they will be seeing more than just the trinkets in the package. In their hands will be Mom's acceptance of the gift to choose happiness over pain and love of family over personal disappointment.
I am proud of Mom because, when faced with dismal thoughts of her own mortality and physical difficulties, she chose happiness; she chose to continue to live while she is still alive rather than lie down and wait for death. I think that is what Advent, Christmas, and faith are all about: acceptance…choosing to live, choosing to be happy, choosing joy and love and believing…choosing Life, with a capital L. I want to remember that the freedom to choose is the ultimate Christmas gift and that not choosing is still a choice: Mary chose, Joseph chose, Jesus chose, and we choose. Yes or no? Happy or sad? Alone or together? Full or empty? Victim or participant? It’s our call. So choose.
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