Tis the Season

Well it's the time of year when people gather with the ones they love, share laughter, exchange gifts and spread a little cheer. This is the first year I will be away from my family for the whole holiday. I spent one Christmas a few years ago with a most beloved friend here in the Czech Republic. It was easy to be away from family then because I had Christmas before I left and knew that I would be seeing them soon when I returned.

This year is different. It has been 5 months to the day since I said farewell to my family in America. Skype is a wonderful invention and has allowed me to enjoy such moments as watching my now one year old nephew scamper around his house, sharing a Christmas movie with my parents, and getting to meet people who live with my 'extended family' in other parts of the country. But, as amazing as Skype is, it can't replace the feeling of being at home with mom's cooking, and sitting with your back to the warm fire until you can't stand it any longer then running as fast as you can to the couch and allowing the heat to warm your whole body as you press your back against the cushion.

I am excited about celebrating this wonderful holiday here in Europe with my new friends and family I have here. The snow is beautiful and can make for fun adventures sliding down the road. But there is still that something missing. That sense of love that permeates everything surround the season. Familiarity and traditions that make me excited about it being Christmas are going to have to be found in new places with new people.

Just a few thoughts while sitting in my flat watching the snow fall and enjoying a warm cup of coffee anticipating a Christmas with my Lord. The one who has been at every Christmas and who will be with me no matter where I am in the world.