15 Days to Christmas. Thursday, Dec 10, 2020

What’s Missing?

The Christmas mystery is upon us. Just like the Grinch tried to steal Christmas from Whoville, COVID has already removed several things from Mr. and Mrs. Jones (your neighbor) this year. What did COVID take? For starters, church music and hymns have all but disappeared from worship this year. These might not be a big deal to some people, but, to others, these are very important to the Christmas experience.

What about the Nutcracker, symphony, concerts, or even the new “Star Wars” film this year? Nope, they’re gone as well. So are the ugly sweater Christmas parties, the off-key carolers in the neighborhood, and live nativity scenes.

What about the children’s Christmas pageant? Nope, not in person, anyway. Instead, lots of grandparents will be watching from their tablets, trying to figure out why Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus are socially distanced from one another on the stage.

Or, maybe we should consider everyone’s favorite: The dreaded office Christmas party and potluck! Awwww, that’s a cancellation that will definitely create some tears. But, even this is gone until next year.

We can laugh along but for lots of people, these events and activities are vital pieces of their Christmas experience. Should we be concerned? Not really, unless we truly care about our neighbors. If we do care, maybe we can think of some things to help Mr. and Mrs. Jones overcome the COVID-thefts, helping them to receive a joyful Christmas.

What can we do for someone this year to re-create what COVID has taken? In lieu of home parties, what about group FaceTime or Zoom parties? Maybe we can send a surprise delivery to the neighbor whose family isn’t coming home this year, or a thoughtful, handwritten note to someone that struggles with technology? Doorstep deliveries of homemade treats are always welcome, as are simple anonymous gifts such as fast food gift certificates and cards.

Giving Christmas to someone doesn’t need to be difficult. Rather, it can be as simple as a homemade ornament that does nothing more than show someone that we care. There are plenty of opportunities this year and our simple gestures of love and kindness can make all the difference.

We can do it! Let’s put on our thinking caps and get busy!

“If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing well.” (James 2:8, ESV)