Card Day (12/16/2023)

Today is card day! I usually have my Christmas cards sent by now; however, this year has been unusually packed with activities that kept me from doing this seasonal tradition. I love getting Christmas cards from others across the country, catching up on what’s new in their lives, or just simply hearing from them. Every card received brings with it memories of how the LORD has worked in my life through others. And so, today I get to take time to really reflect on the blessings in my life called friends and family.

Christmas cards are not a chore or burden, at least not as I see it. But I guess it is a “perspective” thing. To me, it is celebration of gifts: the gift of the Son of God on Christmas and the gift of friends and family. Who would I be without Christ? Who would I be without friends and family? I don’t care to find out. I wish instead to celebrate what is with joy, a few boxes of cards, some good writing pens, and stamps.

It takes me a while to do my cards because I write a note in each one, not a Christmas letter, just a note, personalizing it more than a simple signature. Life is personal; our journeys are personal. What these people have done with me and for me is personal. And as I celebrate the greatest gift ever given, I want to take time to acknowledge their gifts to me.

I guess the best way to describe my seasonal tradition is gratitude. And I can’t explain it, but there is something about reconnecting with everyone that amplifies my gratitude for the love of the LORD and for the love and companionship of others on this journey.

Sometimes, as I get to a name in my address book, my first response is sorrow because someone has passed since last Christmas. I take time to think of them and of their lives and of other love. I give thanks for them, as well, and pray that they are with the LORD in loving peace.

May all of us on our journey in faith, buoyed by hope, and fueled by love experience the joy of this season in our relationships with the LORD, with family, with friends. May we be encouraged by all that has been and look forward with joyful hope to all that can be in, with, and through our LORD. And may we commit anew to another year of our journey, being there for others, loving them as the LORD has loved us.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.