Holidays and character

Theologically, I suspect this writer and I differ widely, but this is still good stuff:

Many Americans, especially women, are so tired from all the preparations that by the time Christmas arrives, they are completely unable to enjoy it.

Holidays also signal another unique kind of stress: The “oh, my god, we have to spend time with the relatives” variety. Sadly, this time of year is all-too-often rife with anxiety, consternation, and emotional upheaval because folks are expected to spend time with their extended families, as well as a variety of friends, neighbors, acquaintances, business associates, and, last but not least, fellow church-goers.

Too true, especially when we put ourselves under pressure to be jolly. Check out this conclusion:

We can all deepen our enjoyment of the upcoming holiday season if we remember that the purpose of Christianity is not to avoid difficulties with our relatives, in-laws, boss, coworkers, neighbors, fellow parishioners, et al., but to produce a character adequate to meet those difficulties when they come.

Very true, especially if we remember that for Christians, that character is being produced by, for, and in the image of Christ Jesus.

Thanks to BlogWatch for the link. And thanks, most importantly, to our mighty God for his ridiculously overwhelming grace.