As we consider the Light of Christmas, there’s a lot to see. Past years bring memories that prompt reflection. Present plans may highlight our busyness, our gratitude or our lack. However, the light of Christmas reminds us Christ is bigger than life, no matter what life brings.

The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. — John 1:4 and 5 NLT

Jesus gives light to everyone, but we have to believe in Him to receive it.

The darkest deception tells us the Light will go out or it is growing dim. But the Light of Christmas is the Light of Creation. It will never fade.

The hope He gives never lets go.

What gift are you hoping to open this Christmas?

Go ahead. Wish. A desire for Christ-centered thoughts deflects self-driven motives. And yet, hearts are free to hope to open something wrapped in His grace.

Maybe there is a book we’ve wanted, a gadget we’ve googled or an email (or card) we’re hoping to find in our mailbox.

Beyond my doorstep and a short drive away, there are people who would love to open a door to a place to call their own. Others may long for an opening to showcase their talent, find romance or receive a regular paycheck.

Whatever we’re hoping for, I hope to have an open heart. I believe God likes to surprise us with unexpected goodness.

We may discover a new way to grow in His grace.

We may smile as past memories remind us of good times or future possibilities fill us with delight.

The Light of Christmas shined so brightly its first night, it gripped the wise men’s hearts. His presence was unmistakable and so was their worship.

They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. — Matthew 2:11 NLT

What are you hoping to give this Christmas?

Gold, frankincense and myrrh were perfect gifts for the Christ child. They were symbols of His royalty (gold), priesthood (frankincense) and His sacrificial death (myrrh). As the wise men opened their treasure, they gave because of who He is.

Our “treasure chest” may hold something different, but it is no less significant. The Christmas gift giving tradition is to express our appreciation to the recipient of our generosity. Whether it’s family, a friend or a stranger, the smallest expression can mean a lot.

As I look over this past year, momentum is my one-word. A bittersweet intensity marks my days. But Christ has been my Rock and my Refuge.

If I took a cue from the wise men, I’d wrap the most resilient rock and something symbolic of an impenetrable fortress and place them under my tree.

As you consider this past year, how have you experienced Him the most?

Whatever it is or whatever you seek, may His light cause you to see His path and rest in His love. Because whatever we hold dear, it holds us in the grip of its power.

With this in mind,

What are you hoping to keep this Christmas?

After December 26, gifts may be returned because they don’t fit or function well. However, there are a few things I need to keep.

Keeping Christ as the center of my focus is more than a seasonal goal. It’s a lifetime pursuit.

Keeping the needs of others in mind helps me see beyond my own.

Keeping God’s Word in my heart guides me on His path.

Whatever precious memories form or if my plans fall apart, the meaning of the season lives on.

The True Light shines on us all. In the darkest of times or the brightest of days, He never fails. He never stops bringing hope for the heart and joy to the soul.