October Christmas Lights!

October 28, 2021

October Christmas Lights!

Last Friday morning, I looked out the window and saw my first outdoor Christmas lights.  The lights warmed my heart and encouraged my spirit.

Last Christmas, things were so shut down that many of the things I enjoy about celebrating Christmas did not happen in familiar ways.  Last Christmas was filled with many disappointments; my soul was downcast.

The Psalmist understands what was going on inside me last year.  In Psalm 42:11 we hear; “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me?”

Last Christmas, there was no in-person worship in the sanctuary on Christmas Eve.  That meant I did not see hundreds and hundreds of people I love.  And, I missed the warm glow of candlelight in a worship space filled with God’s people.  My soul was down cast last Christmas.

So, when I saw the Christmas lights burning bright early last Friday morning, I was excited and inspired.  I am hopeful that this Christmas will be about the gathering of all kinds of people whose hearts are ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus. 

I am looking forward to so many good things this Christmas.  Smiles and joy and anticipation.  Laughter and handshakes and hugs.  Wonder and worship and awe.  Candy canes and candles and the Christ-child.

I am so much more hopeful this year.  The Psalmist turns the corner, too.  After acknowledging his soul is cast down, the Psalmist announces where he finds hope.  In Psalm 42:11 we hear; “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.” 

Our hope and our help is in the Lord.  Our joy and our praise is in the Lord.  Our life and our love is in the Lord.  As I anticipate Christmas this year, my heart is already taking delight in the Lord. 

Last Friday morning, the October Christmas lights touched me in a deep place.  I grew up not seeing Christmas lights on the outside of our house.  So, I am always amazed by Christmas lights; the colors, the design, and the effort!

I know that putting up Christmas lights before Halloween seems far too early.  But, I needed the October Christmas lights this year.  I am excited about Christmas.  I am ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus this year.  My heart is already taking delight in the Lord.

Take Delight In The Lord!

Doug