Rejoice Always 

   “Rejoice always.  Pray without ceasing.  In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thes 5: 16-18) 

   We are about to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.  It is a time of great joy and rejoicing.  But I can’t help but think how much happier we would be if we could take St. Paul’s words to heart and rejoice always.

   It seems to me there are essentially two attitudes among people at this time of year.  They are either rejoicing or frustrated and even angry.  I suspect those who are rejoicing are likely celebrating for the right reasons while those who are frustrated and angry are more concerned with the commercial aspects of Christmas.

   It’s a shame that such a blessed time of the year can be a time of annoyance for some.  If they would look to Bethlehem and the Babe in the manger perhaps they could find some peace within themselves.  As long as the pursuits and desires of this world are their focus they will most likely remain frustrated much of the time.

   I wish there were a way to get the stores and restaurants and other public places to go back to playing true Christmas carols rather than the junk we mostly hear.  If people could hear “Silent Night” while they were dining perhaps their mind could go to the manger and come to know our Lord.  If “O Come, O Come Emanual” were playing in the store maybe they would remember the greatest blessing that ever occurred, the birth of our Lord and Savior.

   St. Paul told the Thessalonians, and us, to rejoice, to pray always, and give thanks.  If we try our best to follow his advice we will be a much happier and joyful people. 

A Babe in a manger.

The Bread of Life.

God in human form.

The Savior of the World. 

   This is why we celebrate; this is where we will find peace and joy.