Adam Lanza Shooting: Pray for the Sandy Hook Victims This Christmas

Culture

If Sandy Hook has taught us anything, it's that we don't have time. I can't wait for tomorrow to make things right. Today, it's Christmas day and it's snowing outside. The tree is decorated with lights and presents are everywhere in sight. But I can't get the faces of those lost almost two weeks ago out of my mind. Truly, less is more today, as parents are missing their children and crying this very day. They are asking for just one more moment with them on this holiday.

At Christmas, it's easy to think only of gifts and pomp. More gifts, more food, it's never enough. But today, I only want to see the people I love. I want to be less worried about everything being perfect and more concerned about cherishing each little moment we have. Because in today's world, who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Mark 12:31 says, "The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these." This I know I have not done as much as I should. I take this verse for granted, as I take people for granted. But it's Christmas, and I should remember that I'm not guaranteed another Christmas to make peace with those I love. To tell someone I love them, to apologize for something I've done wrong. Yes, less talk and more action is something I need to practice more.

Everyone impacted by Sandy Hook, I wish you peace today. And everyone who has suffered a tragedy this year. You probably know more about the fragility of life than I know right now.  Time is a luxury we do not have, no matter what our age.

But right now, there's still a chance to make right a wrong, while I can still draw a breath. James 4:13-14 states, "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."

How true these words are, but how easy it is to forget. So now that it's Christmas, it's time to reflect on the true meaning of life, and the fact that time is short. It's time to reach out more and say I love you more. But sadly, I'm sure I'll forget to take this all to heart, as I get caught up in tomorrow's affairs. Today, I'm going to try to remember that less is actually more.