An Ordinary Christmas Dinner

Christmas painting by Charles Green, 1896. LOC

 

One of the most difficult things to accomplish in the home is not the cleaning, the cooking, the shopping or even managing the finances. The most difficult thing we must do is to make sure our homes are happy.

A major undertaking is to understand relationships, manners, dealing with moods and trials and how to remain graceful and kind through it all.  Part of this work involves the planning and organizing of birthdays and holidays. These are such special times and can be filled with such warmth and joy. There is effort and work that must be done, with patience and flexibility.  We need to be able to manage the day, knowing (and expecting) there to be distractions and annoyances. If we seek a calm heart focused on the Lord, it is very possible we can cheerfully accomplish the goal without troubled or stormy seas. The goal, of course, is happiness and peace despite any difficultly. This can only come from the source of all peace and that is from the dear Lord.

Christmas is in just a few more days. Some will be travelling. Others are expecting guests. Many will be home alone or with just one or two others. In each case, we can plan to make it pleasant and a special day!  In our house, I am serving an ordinary Christmas dinner. There will be mashed potatoes, peas, rolls, and chicken.  The beauty will be in the way the table is set and how nice the candles will look during the meal.  I will make the day special with little touches of service with an understanding of the need for comfort and rest for those in this household. There will be Christmas music in the background. Later I will play the piano for just a little while, in the downstairs living room. I do not think we will have anyone visiting but I expect to see grown children and grandchildren during the coming week.  I am grateful.

May this wonderful season of home and family be a peaceful time of good memories. May it provide us with a sense of thankfulness for all the Lord does for us this Christmas day and always. 

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives -

One of the greatest joys - Mother's Benevolent Society. 

Peaceful old time Living - Quiet Duties of Home.  

What Many of Us Crave - An Ordinary Life at Home.

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For happiness and cheer in the kitchen:

Mrs. White's old-fashioned cookbook focuses on serving meals and setting the table in a humble home.

"Serving in the Kitchen: Cookbook with Recipes, Advice, and Encouragement for the Christian Home"

152 pages, paperback