Have a merry little Christmas

Sale fliers, the blare of radio and television advertisements, screaming youngsters, impatient motorists and abrupt customers – all signs of the times.

But with Christmas only two very, very, VERY short days away, the real sign of the times is too often forgotten.

Christmastime is different things to different people, even here on the bayou.

For some, it’s a time of redemption and rejoicing, feasting, caroling and exchanging plenty of gifts. For others, it’s a time of humility and awe, a reminder of the grace bestowed on each one of us by God.

Like many of the brightly wrapped packages under the tree, we didn’t do anything to deserve it. To the contrary, our behavior prompted Christ’s birth.

Each year, among the hustle and bustle of the frenzied commercial machinery leading up to the big day, we fret what to buy mom and dad or the kids or cousin Jane. Our days are spent in the throes of retailing and wrapping paper. Peace on the Earth tends to take second fiddle.

But come Friday… the anticipation ends with a collective sigh. Amidst the strewn paper and the bows, when the last sip of eggnog has been consumed and the last gift opened, we sit back and take in the joy of the holiday.

Those among us who’ve figured out the real reason for the season – the birth of the babe that would later save the world – sans the hustle and bustle can teach the rest of us a thing or two. No matter which path you find yourself on this holiday, we wish you and yours a merry, blessed Christmas.