The Secret Of A Simple Christmas Tree In 2020

Well, I did it. I put up our Christmas tree on November 1!

I know… you might call me crazy. It’s not even Thanksgiving yet! I’m one who always decorates early for Christmas, however this year I just couldn’t help myself by doing it even earlier. It’s no secret this year has been a struggle for many of us, and lately my attitude has struggled, too. After the ugly election and as COVID numbers continued to rise, my weary soul needed a boost. A shot of joy, of hope, of promise. I knew just the thing that would help (because I love Christmas immensely!). So, I dug out our decorations and put up our Christmas tree.

And you know? What a difference that made!

This simple Christmas tree of ours brings joy to my heart.

But, should I even be talking about Christmas yet? Let alone putting up a tree?? I recall from years ago one person’s comment on a post I wrote on Facebook. It was the week before Thanksgiving, and I mentioned I was thinking of putting up our Christmas tree. This person made her opinion known as she commented, “You can’t do that. It’s not Thanksgiving yet!” I think my post even made her a bit mad.

The rebel in me silently said, “Watch me.” And our tree went up that afternoon.

So, why am I sharing all of this?

Because I believe we each are in need of some extra joy right now. I believe we are longing for some good news, for a shot of hope, and for some good ol’ fashioned cheer. And what brings each of us joy is likely something different. For me it was decorating for Christmas early. For you it may be something entirely different. But, I think it’s important we do something or find something now that brings us that joy.

And it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks or says about it.

What is that thing for you, friend? What would bring joy to your heart today? If it’s seeing your Christmas tree all lit up, even if it’s before Thanksgiving, then do it. If it’s baking your favorite bread, then bake it. Maybe it’s taking a long walk in the woods. Then take that walk. If it’s indulging in a cup of hot cocoa, then enjoy every sip. Is it going Christmas shopping? Then go shopping. If it’s working out, then work out.

Whatever will bring you joy today, I say do it.

But let’s not stop here, however. Let’s take it a step further. How can you and I bring joy to another’s life? A spouse, a coworker, a child, a neighbor? What’s one simple way you can bless another today?

Here’s the secret: something so simple can bring great joy. Including a Christmas tree. I’m praying for us all in these days, and am praying Romans 15:13 for you today.

I pray that God, the source of all hope, will infuse your lives with an abundance of joy and peace in the midst of your faith so that your hope will overflow through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13 VOICE

Much love,