We have all heard the challenging phrase, “What are you waiting for, Christmas?” This simple phrase is meant to motivate one to action.
The origin of the phrase is unknown, and its intent could be understood in many ways. A response could be, “OK, let’s go.” Perhaps, “pack your patience” as a proportional response in jest. I like to think of it as a reminder that there is work to be done, and if we are waiting for the perfect moment then we may not ever get going. As we soon end the celebration of the Christmas season, we might also think about what’s next on our journey as disciples.
Christmas gift!
My grandmother on my father’s side of the family was known for her wit and humor. Grandma Henderson was always the first to crack a joke and had a full vocabulary of words that were aligned with Southern Appalachian culture. I would often ask for a translation when a word or phrase did not register. One such statement that occurred every time we would open her front door for a visit was “Christmas gift!” She was genuinely glad to see us, but what was the meaning of “Christmas gift,” especially in the middle of July. It was not until after she was gone that I looked it up. It is a southern phrase that simply reflects the joy of something, specifically something or someone that you “claim” as a gift on Christmas morning. Although this phrase obviously originated on a holy occasion, my grandmother adopted it as an affirmation of all whom she held dear year-round.
What are we waiting for?
Our Christmas celebration this year included a close of the Jubilee Year of Hope. We were challenged to be pilgrims of hope, and to find new purpose on our journey of discipleship. I would like to think that I grew in some profound way, but the way of the pilgrim is often subtle. Our daily choices build upon each moment until our path becomes clear. We are called to “go” to “serve” to “love.” These are all words of action and move us forward with a living faith.
Are we still waiting? Are we still waiting for that perfect Christmas when our path becomes crystal clear? Jesus only asked his disciples to “follow me,” and the rest would come later with faith. I think the question posed is appropriate given the challenges facing our world today. Our faith, and might I be so bold to say, our “faith in action,” is what disciples are called to.
Where can you demonstrate your faith in action? For my elderly grandmother, it was in sharing joy to all she loved every time she encountered them. For you, it might be serving a neighbor with a gift of your time, talents or treasure.
A gift of self
For our God, it began again through a gift of self, 2025 years ago. God was and is, always, already there. Yet, God chose to begin again with a gift that would be an example of what we should do as well. A gift of time is a gift of self, and that might be a good place to start.
What are you waiting for? Pick up the phone and call a loved one, volunteer at your parish or serve at an organization like your Catholic Social Services. We need your help now more than ever before, and what better way to start the new year than in the choice to follow as a re-motivated pilgrim of hope.
You can begin again, or for the first time; it matters all the same. As my grandma would remind us, the “Christmas gift” does not just happen once a year but can be anytime you choose to express your faith in action.
Learn more about getting involved with Catholic Social Services at www.serveasneighbors.org
