Originally published Tuesday, 31 December 2013.
We return our decorations to their storage boxes to conclude another Christmas past. Upon evaluation of what remains, alongside the pine needles and glitter specks, I find wonder.
The wonder for Christians post-Christmas continues; the decorations are laid to rest year after year but our Savior lives on.
We pack away temporal Christmas treasures symbolizing peace, love, joy, and eternal hope; yet, eternal life is the gift that remains. No one can put a lid on the true meaning of Christmas because inexpressible light and joy promises to live on in the hearts of believers until such a time for His second coming.
The wrapping paper and boxes are disposed, the gifts received, and a few presents returned and in it all is this: The gift was given just over two thousand years ago and His is the gift which gives eternal.
As we embark on 2014, it is with the knowledge that no present brings peace and no gift brings reconciliation except the Christ whose birth we celebrate each year.
We stand on the threshold of a new year remembering His promises: Jesus will return and until such time He rewards those who live with faith and earnestly seeking Him. (Hebrews 11:6)
Happy New Year, dear ones. I look forward to seeking our Savior with you in the year to come.