christmas Archives - Page 4 of 12

It was June of 1994. “His due date is Christmas Day,” my obstetrician shared. Later that evening we told big brother, Jarrod, “Your little brother might come on Christmas Day!”

Instantly, my mind began thinking of Christmas plans, gifts, socials, and school! “Will I make it to Christmas break before he comes?” Time flew faster than bad news! We celebrated Jesus with one special boy that Christmas-two days later, another special boy, Jay, was delivered. All in due time.

December is determined! What is due? Past due. Due dates. Taxes, bills, and holiday shopping! Due diligence is necessary. How can we live in the moment constantly thinking about due dates? Ah, I have found freedom in the frenzy. As life’s due dates circle and swirl, my communion with Christ centers me.

Outstanding, receivable, and payable. Our debts were paid, dear friends.

Outstanding

In his creation all “due dates” crumble.

Walks in the woods prove how nature cares less about due dates. Humans force and nature flows. The hawk and I gazed at one another for what seemed like eternity. “I’m not going to take your dinner, my friend,” I whispered. Songs from what seemed like a thousand birds cried out. I felt cushioned and calm.

Due dates? All were called off. Nothing would “come around” but critters. Charitable was conducted between the kindness of few strangers enjoying conservation. We weren’t “checked out” (either at a store or on-line). We were completely checked IN.

Nothing was owed.

Receivable

Due to cutbacks and shortages, this rowdy class of 5^th grade students didn’t have a teacher. After a physical altercation was carried out, *Ellie asked, “Will you forgive me? Can I come back to the circle?”

“Oh, sweetheart. Please come back. I’m given grace each day. Of course I forgive you.”

Situations arose that required assistance and differing outcomes. Yet, at the end of the day, there wasn’t anything due.

What was due? She had consequences (don’t we ALL?). What was receivable? Love won.

Payable

Humans put due dates on everything. Kids, jobs, relationships, and homes. Beliefs, habits, health, and unknowns. Holidays, sports, customs, and pets. Squeeze a few more in, stress and regrets.

So much is owed. What are YOU…DUE?

What if we paid one another kindness, respect, and generosity?

Payable? You’re not delinquent. The debts, short and long-term, are paid.

Do you have hope? Do you believe? Or do you feel unworthy to be paid? Due and delivered over 2,000 years ago, Jesus paid all that is due. HE WILL RETURN. All in due time.