Bring Back the Wonder

Christmastime can be hard for some. Maybe you don't feel the awe and wonder of the season. Maybe you don't have anyone special to celebrate with. Or maybe you've lost loved ones and this time of year you feel their absence even more. Whatever it is, sometimes as adults we lose the cheer, the joy and the wonder we once felt in this season. But, what if Christmas, no matter where you find yourself doesn't have to be this glittery, shiny, over-stuffed holiday?

Think back to when you were a child... What was the most wonderful part of this time of year to you? Was it seeing Santa at the mall? Singing Christmas carols by the piano with your grandma? The smell of cookies baking in the oven? My favorite part of Christmas has always been Christmas morning. When I was little it was seeing what Santa and my parents put under the tree. The anticipation as the hours ticked past throughout the night waiting for the sun to come up. As I got older, it became more about being snuggly in my Christmas pajamas, cozy by the fire, and spending time with my family. Christmas morning is still one of my favorite parts of the whole holiday. Especially as I now get to live it through the eyes of my own children. To have the kids bound down the hall and into our room before the sun is up. The excitement in their voices brings my mama heart so much joy. I know that I will be sad when these days are gone, so I am soaking up every single one of them.

Children really do have a way of bringing you back to the wonder of it all. In the lights. In a simple ring of a jingle bell. In the kiss of a snowflake on your cheek. So, this Christmas if you are trying to keep the wonder alive in your heart, choose to look at things through the lens of a child. Pause your hurry, your wrapping, your buying, your cleaning, and really take in the moments. Breathe in the beauty of what is around you. In the simple things that you may typically overlook and bring back the wonder.

This is why I think Jesus paused his ministry to adults and intentionally spent time with the children. He made a point to say, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

Jesus knew that children were important. They see the world through a lens that allows them to appreciate God's world so much more than adults. As adults we tend to get bogged down by our responsibilities and do-to lists. While children take the time to lay in the grass and stare up at the clouds. To notice the puddles and rainbows that come after the rain. Children notice the little things, and that makes them appreciate the wonder of Christmas so much more than us sometimes.

So, if you are feeling a little extra sad, or disappointed or maybe a little lonely this time of year, try to take a look at the world around you from a child's view. Look around and really take in the wonder of who God is and all He has created. A beautiful sunrise. The crunch of the snow under your feet. The soft breeze whispering through the trees. It all declares the wonder of God and just how much He loves you. He made all these things with you in mind.

I am so thankful for you, dear one, and I pray that in all the hustle and bustle you take just a moment to appreciate and bring back the wonder of Christmas.

Wishing you and yours the most blessed season.

Love you mama!