Volume 2, No. 12: A Christmas Reboot

Christmas comes mercifully at a perfect time.

It comes at the end of the year and that is especially helpful if it’s been a tough year. 

With its emphasis on light, faith, family, and tradition, Christmas coming at the darkest time of the year is also helpful.  And I’m not just talking about the short days, I’m talking about the sadness that often nips at our heels this time of the year, especially as the years and the losses accumulate. 

Honestly, for me it couldn’t have come at a better time.  It seems that our world is getting worser and worser.  Will we ever figure this thing out?  I’m tired of partisan politics, angry people shouting, petitioning, blockading, and promoting things that would be unthinkable to most of the humans who have ever existed.  I’d settle for just getting back to disagreeing agreeably.   

And then the end of the year reminds me of my mortality and, more importantly, the mortality of my elderly parents, mother-in-law, and dear friends that I cherish.

But Christmas…

A time to reboot.

I recently read Apostle John’s words, written near the of his life.  He wrote, “…a new commandment I write to you, which thing is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining.” (1 John 2:8)

Did you catch it? 

Turns out things are getting better and brighter after all.  The first Christmas guaranteed it.  The reason why the darkness is so stark and troubling is because we see it in contrast to the beautiful hope and light of Jesus Christ.

As far back as I can remember my dad has ended virtually every conversation I’ve had with him with the words: “Keep looking up for our redemption draweth nigh.”  What he is saying is, “David, keep rebooting and stay focused on the ultimate truth, not the temporary and passing tests and trials of the moment.”

How true, how hopeful, how Christmas.

So this year, a year that has included unspeakable tragedies on so many levels for so many people—maybe for you—don’t forget: The darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining.

Let us put our hope and focus there as we slowly turn the page on 2023 and begin a new year.

Wishing you a most blessed and light-filled Merry Christmas,

David L. Kemp