Can the Grinch REALLY Steal Christmas?

              Dr. Seuss’ “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” never really resonated with me.  The absence of the Christ Child at the heart of the story made it, for me, just miss the mark.  And “Fahoo foores Dahoo dore-es”??!!  (What DOES that MEAN, anyway?)   I, for one, try not to tune into the story of the Grinch at Christmastime.

              But on my third trip back to the nursery last week, hoping for Christmas garlands, the Grinch appeared in all his green glory:  Sadly, there were only two 25-foot garlands left on the shelf.  And I needed three.  The wholesaler had only received two of their six truckloads this year.  Supply chain issues.  And what did arrive was as thin and wiry looking as the hairs on Grinch’s head.  Right on cue, over the sound system came the verse not to be mistaken: “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch…”

              I left with that greenish, Grinch-like feeling that global news broadcasts brought on over these recent years, as they heaped up servings of bad news a-plenty...with a Grinch on top.  Bah!

              Heading back toward church, my thoughts turned toward Sunday’s Lessons and Carols and the upcoming Christmas Pageant. And the slimy green feeling began to transform into a fresh, wintergreen—a life-filled green.  And as I opened the door to our House of God, there was quite a different song in the air: children’s voices reaching; adult voices supporting them.  “O Come, O Come Emmanuel!!”  I heard words of Scripture being read aloud, in preparation for Lessons and Carols!  And there was a beautiful Advent Wreath aglow with candles that had been lit by members of the congregation these past weeks.   And a Christmas tree overflowing with gifts to share. 

              I was greeted at the Parish Office by happy voices, rejoicing in generosity; people entering one by one to share a gift card or drop off a Giving Tree gift, or to help adorn our Christmas altar with their loving poinsettia memorials.  Or just to share good wishes for the season.  Suddenly those greens I needed for my mantle didn’t seem so important.
 
              So, CAN the Grinch steal Christmas?  Well, no.  And, yes.  While nothing can take God’s Greatest gift away from us, you may miss it: if you let your mind be filled with concerns about parties and garlands and the troubles of this world. A gift is only fully accomplished once it is received.  And if our minds and hearts are not prepared to receive the gift, then we risk not fully receiving it—at the very time of year that is meant to be fully received and celebrated. 

              What’s in your mind and heart?  If you’re focused on those halls that aren’t fully decked this year, that sleigh full of toys teetering at the top of the Grinch’s Mountain, avert your gaze to what’s happening here.  Your Parish Family has much to share, and opportunities for you to share, in turn.  Don’t miss the joy of Christmas this year!

              Light the Advent Wreath—at home—in church.  Attend the Christmas Pageant.  Receive the grace of Reconciliation. Prepare your hearts to share the joy that is the gift of the Christ Child.