“So much good stuff here, so much good stuff to do at home,” I thought as I took this picture at Saturday morning’s Winter Market at the Rockfish Valley Community Center. Keith and I will sell our books at the Holiday Market next week—that’s it until next year or until his next book comes out. But then there will be more stuff to deal with and do.

Material stuff

Two friends and I wandered the aisles at Walmart, shopping for our Bible study Christmas child, a five-year-old boy. In a world of overabundance, his family of seven had less than they needed. His wants: shirts, pants, shoes, a football, art and music.

As I fingered the large stuffed animals, I thought about how easy it is to get caught up in things, even though we all need the stuff of life: food, clothing, shelter. And work.

Activity stuff

Our annual Christmas cards and letter—check. End-of-the-year donations and gift checks—check. Shop for gifts and us—check. Decorate the house and put up the tree—check. Bake cookies and cook meals—check. Lots of stuff to do.

Holiday luncheons and parties. Advent and Christmas services. Rehearsals and performances. “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “Come, Seek the Baby Jesus,” “Prepare the Way of the Lord,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.” Excerpts from The Messiah.

Then “Silent Night.”

Real stuff

How easy it is to forget that we need to become worn and tattered, like the Velveteen Rabbit, in order to humble ourselves to God and therefore become real—and truly loving.

And so, after partaking of the pancake breakfast, I made the rounds at Winter Market then sat down next to Keith. I watched the shoppers—many families with children—and thought about our five-year-old boy and his family. I thought about the “to-dos” waiting for me at home. Then I quieted my worn and tattered mind so the true spirit of Christmas could enter my heart. 

His Word, His Son. The real stuff in those who believe.

Linkup with Five Minute Friday: https://fiveminutefriday.com/2024/12/05/fmf-writing-prompt-link-up-stuff/