The Comet's Flame

Christmas is probably my favorite holiday. Admittedly, the cold weather and icy roads are somewhat annoying, but there just seems to be something magical in the air as that time of year approaches.

I’m not talking about the cheesy materialistic “magic” that the shopping malls and TV shows try to generate (in order to increase seasonal profits). That kind of stuff used to thrill me — I was always so excited to open presents and find out what cool toys I got, etc. But not any more. I don’t really even think about what I’m getting for Christmas, or what delicious candies and baked goodies I’m going to be able to consume, or whether I’m going to be able to go sledding.

It’s not that I don’t appreciate or enjoy these things (I like gifts and fun times just as much as the next guy). It’s just that the spirit of the season is what thrills me the most these days. I would be just as excited to get the gift of a simple hand-drawn picture as I would to receive a $1000 oscilloscope (the engineering geek’s version of a Wii), because it would express the spirit of unselfish friendship.

As I was driving to school this morning, I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful the world is at Christmas time. Soft rays of sunlight peeking through the gray skies. Glistening ice transforming trees and plants into exquisite sculptures. White snow covering the ground. Everything is peaceful and quiet…

None of that is man-made. You can’t buy any of that magic in the stores. It’s all from God. Really, that’s the only thing that Christmas is about… it’s about God. Many years ago, God initiated the first demonstration of the Christmas spirit by sending us the gift of Jesus Christ. Still today, He continues to give us wonderful gifts, like opportunities to sit around the fire with family, chances to laugh and talk with friends over a cup of hot chocolate, and warm houses (and cars) with insulated windows from which we can observe the winter beauty in a comfortable setting.

Merry Christmas, everybody… may God fill you with the joy of Christmas. I hope you’re all enjoying the season as much as I am!