Now that the Christmas trees, inflatable lawn Santas, and Nativity scenes are coming down, and the pace of life has returned to status quo, most of us are a little relieved. The hustle and bustle of the Christmas season is draining both mentally and physically. Even though we always look forward to this most wonderful time of the year, most of us could use a long winter’s nap to recover from all the celebrating.
From Thanksgiving until New Year’s, most of us run at a frantic pace. There are not only the parties and caroling and gift exchanges, but also the extra charitable endeavors we take on: making donations to our favorite charities or an extra offering at Christmas Mass, serving at a homeless shelter or feeding those at a local soup kitchen. Whatever our commitments, the Christmas season calendar is always jam-packed.
So, now that the season is winding down, what comes next?
Aside from setting time aside for that long winter’s nap, there is an important factor to consider.
Ultimately, we need to remember that giving is not seasonal. Giving during the holidays can seem exciting, even noble. We may even pat ourselves on the back after doing our charitable Christmas deeds, and then cross them off our to-do lists for the year.
However, for the homeless, the hungry, and the underprivileged, their needs continue after our Christmas giving is done.
Sure, it’s wonderful to give more of yourself during Advent and the Christmas season. But it’s important to remember to share your time, talent, and treasure the other 11 months of the year. After all, being a steward is a full time job.
