“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” according to the song… Don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas. I love buying presents, I love wrapping them and most of all I love, love, love the Christmas food and drink! But why does it have to be so stressful? I thought that I’d got it sorted this year. Two of my three children are now at secondary school, so that rules out most of the primary school connected stuff; just one child that needs supplies for the Christmas party at the very last minute (“But I told you last night, mummy. I need paper plates and a table decoration for today!”). But somehow it’s crept up on me and we’re less than a week from the Big Day and there’s still so much to be done and the house is a tip!
I’ve learnt a lot about juggling and compromise since becoming a parent 13 years ago. Going back to work 3 years ago was a game-changer and I’m still not completely sure that I’m back to my super-organised-stay-at-home-mum former self… But when it comes down to it, what is ACTUALLY important? I can’t imagine what Mary was going through 2,000 years ago. I can’t imagine being heavily pregnant, possibly even in labour, but nowhere to go apart from a stinky stable. Then just as you’re getting yourself together a bunch of unwashed shepherds turn up! Was she having her “baby blues” day when the Magi swept in bringing their weird presents? Maybe Mary took it all in her stride; these were very different times, after all…
So either it will all come together in the next few days, or it won’t! Regardless, I’m looking forward to a few days at home with the family and hopefully the chance to reflect on why we celebrate Christmas and the coming in to the world of a very unlikely saviour.
Have a good one, everyone!
Faith Miller
Jubilee Church Blog 