There is a vicious rumor floating around that I’m not the biggest fan of Christmas.  Now, don’t misunderstand the rumor.  I’m a huge fan of Jesus, but some have suggested I’m kind of a Scrooge when it comes to the festivities.  You can make your decision about me however you like.

Anyway, here’s the top 5 things I really like about Christmas:

  1. I like the spirit of anticipation.  Whether it’s the kids counting down the number of days or the savvy shoppers looking to make all the purchases before the clock strikes I like that people are living in anticipation.  (As Christians that spirit ought to be the mark of our lives.)
  2. I like the reality that in those last few days of the year people deprioritize work and just have more fun.  I think it should be that way the whole year through, but it isn’t and maybe that’s why Christmas is so much fun.
  3. I like the joy you see in people eyes and faces right after the Christmas Eve service is over.  There’s just something about that evening and people being there and talking and laughing and wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas” that just makes the whole thing feel right.
  4. I like going home after the service, eating some soup, and waiting for the kids to go to bed.  BTW:  Let me pause here and say two things specifically about this thought.  First, this is about the only time soup is an appropriate dinner.  To me, it’s kind of like you are greasing your throat and preparing your stomach for what will happen to it just a few hours later.  Second, over the past couple of years we’ve done this soup thing with some of our close friends (Andrew and Stephanie Turner) and it’s like the real highlight of my whole Christmas.
  5. I like moment the kids wake up, head down the stairs, and see the bounty.  There’s nothing better than seeing joy and excitement in the face of innocence.  It’s like all is right in the world for that split second.
  6. I like making a big breakfast after the presents are open and the kids are playing with all they’ve received.  Breakfast never tastes better and it’s a great start to the whole rest of the day.