Expanding the Circle (12/26/2024)

My grandson invited a couple to join our family for Thanksgiving. At Thanksgiving, we drew names for our Secret Santas, and my grandson asked if we were including our guests. I was struck by his concern for his friends. I said, “Of course.” And instantly, our circle expanded. Loving kindness is like that.

And when we gathered this week for our Christmas celebration, our circle was bigger, including two new members. We did what we always do – our traditions. We visited for a while after all had arrived, then we moved the furniture to accommodate 18 of us in our family room. We gathered for the Christmas story and then the three youngest were assigned to place the baby Jesus figure in all the nativity scenes (one in every room). Then the youngest three handed out all the gifts. Finally, we opened our gifts, beginning with the youngest and moving up to we ancients (my husband and I).

As we celebrated in our usual fashion, I was watchful, observing how our newest members were doing. They were taking it all in. They appeared comfortable.

Just before our newest members left, my grandson approached me and asked if I was going to invite them to our next Christmas. I loved the sincere concern for his friends expressed in his question. I loved his trust in me; it was a compliment. I said, “Yes, of course.” And my grandson called his friend so that I could invite him. And I did. I invited him to join us for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

As our newest guests were leaving, we gathered to give them hugs and wish them a Merry Christmas. As they left, the young man said, “Love you; love you all.” And I knew he meant it.

I am grateful for my grandson’s belief in loving inclusion. I am grateful for my family’s concern for one another and others. I am grateful for our two newest members. This year, I was given two new members to my family. Thank you, LORD.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.