While this Advent/Christmas season is filled with
music that reminds us of what is so special about this time of year, an age-old
hymn has been on my mind lately. A poem that was later set to music was written
by neither a pastor nor composer.
William Longstaff was an English businessman, a Christian layman who took his
faith seriously. The title offers good advice for us during these days of preparation:
“Take Time to Be Holy.” It is so
easy to get caught up in the frantic pursuit of gift-buying and numerous other
preparations, it’s little wonder that many
folks are exhausted by Christmas morning. The secular approach to the season often
overpowers the sacred.
As Christians we need to remember that Advent is primarily
a season of spiritual preparation that has to do with soul matters. Too often
we fail to pursue the quiet times of reflection, meditation, and discernment
that are a part of our spiritual journey especially during these holy days,
commonly known as holidays. Amidst all the sights
and sounds, and even the noise that accompanies this time of year, we have to
be intentional in finding quiet times. We need to take a “spiritual time
out” to experience the fullness of peace and joy that
the coming of Jesus Christ brings.
So, let’s fill some of our time with activities
that will fill our souls and the souls of others. Take time to be holy through
prayer and discernment. Review the carols of the season and concentrate on their
meaning and message for your life. Read again the Christmas story from the
gospels of Matthew and Luke. Attend and participate in worship expectantly. Spend
time in prayer for the needs of others, and consider what we can do to make
this a holy season for them. The heart of Christmas is love, and the joy of
Christmas lies in sharing “gifts of love” not only with loved ones, but with
those who need it the most. When we do, our lives will be enriched and so will
the lives of others as we are led to share the good news of God’s love through
word and deed. These are Holy Days. Take time to be holy.
