I wrote this on 12/3/16 on atimetoshare.me.  Since writing about the appearance of each spirit that visited Scrooge this week, I decided it was worth a re-run.

I always thought that “A Christmas Carol” was just another of those dark Dickens stories, filled with hopeless characters. I now see it as a tale of a man’s redemption. I think if each of us were allowed to travel in Scrooge’s dreamlike time machine, we might all be afforded the same result Scrooge experienced.

Looking at my Christmases past, I remember there were always presents, even though we didn’t have any money. I don’t remember any of them anymore, but I recall moments of wonder and excitement. There was always Christmas music and a huge tree in church. It was about 50’ tall and freshly cut from some member’s land, so the smell of the north woods permeated the sanctuary. Candles were lit and special music was played.

Scrumptious sights and sounds and smells – Christmas is full of delicious treats, special cookies, good times with family, laughter and so much more.

But for those who are alone, it’s time to dwell on the emptiness of life. For those who have little or no money, it means depression and guilt.  For those who are far away from home, there’s a feeling of loss – a feeling of not being apart of this amazing season with those they love.

One of the biggest things I remember is never having much money. What I didn’t realize then, was the sacrifices my parents  made for us. Even as I began my own family, there never seemed to be enough, but we muddled through.

Christmas present has placed me in the golden years of life, giving me time to reflect, to refresh and rejuvenate as I decide what lies ahead.  We now enjoy the charm of a house from the late 19th century.  Even though the floors are uneven, it’s as if God prepared it just for us.

Looking into the future, I could be consumed with thoughts of the grave, but it seems God has other plans for me.  So I’ll continue to press on through the next chapter.

As Scrooge’s heart softened through his journey, the tale of a heart redeemed gives us hope too.  We can choose to be like the old humbug Scrooge or become new again through the love that God gave us on that first Christmas eve.  The choice is really a no brainer.

Lord, help me realize that you are the light of the world radiating from a humble cradle.  Live in my heart now as my Redeemer and King. Amen!