Merry & Bright: Celebrating Christmas Every Dayनमूना

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas “It’s not what’s under the tree that matters; it’s who’s gathered around it.” — Anonymous Gathering together over a meal is quite a common occurrence at Christmas. From family gatherings to office parties to team appreciation activities, there’s an array of opportunities to celebrate relationships and show love to people we’re deeply connected to. And just like the celebrations are broad, so are the types of food we partake in at the tables we are gathered around. Too often we wait to enjoy a meal with people until there is a holiday on our calendar. We celebrate Christmas and Easter with some secondary holidays in between. Sadly, we don’t connect with people enough when we were made to do just that. There’s something special about gathering together and enjoying the relationships in our lives that God has blessed us with. The Bible is full of one-another statements that we can only accomplish with... one another. Love one another—John 13:34 Serve one another—Galatians 5:13 Forgive one another—Ephesians 4:32 Honor one another—Romans 12:10 Pray for one another—James 5:16 In order to fulfill so much in God’s Word, we must gather with one another more often. So, why not do something every month? Why do we wait until the busiest month of the year to share a meal with people? Why don’t we make the effort to invite people over more regularly so that we won’t wonder what they’ve been up to since last Christmas? This isn’t a suggestion to have a party each month and eat Christmas cookies all year, although you certainly can do so if that’s your preference. (We’re not judging!) No, this is a call to gather more often with friends and family. To not wait until a holiday to spend time and make memories with those you love. Celebrating our friendships with others and loving on our family members is something that encouraged us and honors God. Reflect * How often do you share a meal with cherished friends and extended family? * Consider making a list of people you would like to get together with and make a plan to do so every month of the year.