boxing day

When I was a very little girl, I thought that Boxing Day (aka December 26th) was the day on which family conflicts roiled over and disagreements came to blows. It wasn't until later that I realized Boxing Day is about putting gifts in a box, and giving them away.

It isn't about pugilism; it's about altruism.  It isn't about winning a conflict or proving a point.  It's about taking what you have, putting it in a box, and giving it away.

This year, I woke up thinking not about strength, but about surrender.

And it left me wondering....what do I, what do you, have to give away?

Maybe it's an asset.  Something you own, something you've earned, something you love, something you're called to share.

Or maybe it's an ache.  Maybe Christmas reminded you of the prodigal who didn't make their way home, the loved one you lost too soon, the conflict that has yet to be resolved.

Either way, let Boxing Day be an invitation to take what you've been carrying close to your heart, and lay it down.

Maybe this year, Boxing Day is an opportunity to take Jesus at his word... “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart..."

Maybe Boxing Day is the day on which you can finally find rest for your soul.