Christmas in Texas
It’s a big state in a crowded world, but Susan and her dog, Clovis, often find solace in walking together near Alpine. Far from the deafening noise of Dallas and Houston, they’re able to step onto a deserted railroad track knowing that there will be no trains to interrupt the serenity of living 75 miles from the nearest Walmart.
It’s interesting how at this time of year when the hush is supposed to settle upon us and reflection set in that we scurry and squander. If you’re like me, you’ve been dismayed by the reports of extravagant spending in an American economy that is struggling to put people back to work. Glitz and gluttony rise to a super high pitch during the Christmas season while the still small voice of the Christ child can appear to diminish to a whisper.
Maybe that’s why we need to be like Clovis. No one is going to attack Susan without his notice. No one is going to attack my Savior without my notice either. There’s a lot of noise outside my window, but I live to tell of a Man who is my best friend. I guard our relationship and defend His preeminence.
In a world that needs Him, Christianity remains a faith to be protected. There are all kinds of attacks pulling on it all year long, with over-the-top indulgence being but one example. Living in the world may be more challenging than it was even five years ago, but we have a choice to make in how we live, what we buy and who we help. We can do simple, and we will be the better for it.