Watching this Christmas

For me, this Christmas is filled with watching.

Taking time away from chores to watch my 9-month-old move around the room by rolling, sliding, scooting—almost crawling. There always seems to be tiny toys on the floor, no matter how hard I try, so I’m keeping watch over the little babe’s safety, but enjoying every minute of it because, after three, I know how fast time goes and how quickly babies grow up. I already miss newborn snuggles. How was that already nine months ago? So much growth in nine months. His eyes are filled with watching, soaking in what’s around him with those big, beautiful brown eyes.

The Christmas season is also filled with watching Christmas movies—far fewer than last year because I’m much more tired now—but Elf is still a huge, unmissable tradition for our family. J and I saw Elf Jr., the musical, in anticipation of the whole family (minus baby F) attending the Elf party at the Alamo movie theater. One of my favorite moments of the year is when my husband yells “No!” at the top of his normally quiet lungs when Buddy finds out his dad is on the naughty list. Another family favorite is The Very First Noel. The kids watch this one at school, but we love it so much we usually watch it at home too. It’s magical to hear the whole school laugh at the silly parts.

We watch the glow and twinkle of Christmas lights, dwelling in the beauty of Jesus lighting the world.

I’m watching to see how God will show up for people who are suffering at this time. Two older women I know have been in car-totaling accidents. Will they see hope this Christmas? A dear family friend is in the hospital with blood clots, watching to see if it’s cancer. Will she see healing—or even her own home—this Christmas? A pregnant friend is worried about where she’ll live, how she’ll afford it, and how she’ll move with a full belly or a little one in tow. Will she see peace this Christmas? A working mom is in a terrible work environment. Will she see guidance this Christmas? The list could go on and on. I keep watch. I keep praying.

What are you watching this Christmas?