Christmas expectations

I get so caught up in the expectation of it all. The lights, the
presents, the "magic" of the season. All these things are good.
Blessing from the father, and I enjoy them. People usually say
something like "remember the reason we celebrate, or its Jesus
birthday" something to that effect, just to remind us that its not
about the "magic" of the lights, or Santa or whatever may steal our
affections. This year I have be thinking of the expectation of the
season, and how it effects me. I get excited to find the "perfect"
gift for someone, I'm overjoyed when the kids open Santa on Christmas
morning, I love making homemade gifts for my grandmother (who insists
I not spend any money on her). Then all in one day, the "magic" is
gone, the toy that you found (that you spent hours searching for and
fighting over with some crazy women at Toys R Us) is discarded. Its
such a disappointment of sorts. At least for me, its sad to see the
season go.

The longing of the heart that Christmas brings is something of the
human experience. We long for peace, for happy children, for beautiful
family gatherings, and wonderful memories. Then we are confronted with
the reality that our longings and dreams are carried out in a sinful,
fallen world. The longing in my heart for "peace on earth" doesn't
come by accident. God put it there for a purpose. That purpose is to
drive us to seek the one who can fill our hearts with peace, and our
homes with joy. The peace and joy that comes from knowing him. The
understanding that one day, all this expectation, waiting, longing,
going to the mountaintop, living in the valley, will come to an end.
We will stand before our God, whole and complete, not lacking
anything. We will be made perfect, the real us, who we were meant to
be from the beginning of time. He will come and put all our longings
to rest. The expectation and hope for "peace on earth" will be meet!
That is the good news of the Christmas story that began in a manger
over 2000 years ago. In the meantime, enjoy the lights, search for the
perfect gift, and yes, stare down the woman at Toys R Us who threatens
to come between you and a happy child on Christmas morning.