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The Night Before…


‘Twas the night before Christmas and long before ten, the house had been emptied of family and friends. 

The weather was cold, the presents unwrapped, our bellies were full, no more fun to be had. 

How I sat disappointed after everyone left, feeling lonely and tired and, quite frankly, bereft. 

Thinking back to the time when the magic was new, it certainly seemed the night was longer, too.

The adults would play games, the children had fun, the food would stay out for us to graze upon.

Now everyone’s tired, it’s always a rush. There’s almost no time to enjoy for the fuss.

My expected fun night had disappeared quick, but reality is never a fanciful trick.

The fact is that now in this season of life the expected outcome never happens quite right.

As I learn to walk in this awkward new phase, I’m reminded again of a wonderful phrase:

The first Christmas was messy, it’s okay if mine is, too, for Jesus just came to save me and you. The food and presents are all very well, but without our Savior, there is nothing to tell.

The magic, you see, isn’t gifts or the fun. The magic is simply God’s very own Son.

I remind myself of that first Christmas night. The expected King was a baby so slight.

So now, all nestled and snug in my bed, I understand fully the truth of what’s always been said. 

My expected Christmas may not have turned out just right, but in to this very dark world came the Light.

At the end of the season, as I sit and reflect, may I always remember that first Christmas kept.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.



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