In 1990 Natalie Cole released the song, Grown-Up Christmas List, and it became one of her signature songs. Two years later Amy Grant covered the song with additional lyrics and became a big hit for her. While others have either recorded or performed the song, its popularity has allowed it to be a staple for anyone’s Christmas playlist.
The song takes the listener to days-gone-by when we once sat on the knee to articulate our Christmas wishes. Now grown up, the older and wiser one has a list as well. It’s just not the same kind of list. It’s changed. It’s matured. It’s no longer self-serving, but far more inclusive of the people we contact.
No more lives torn apart ● That wars would never start ● And time would heal all hearts ● And everyone would have a friend ● And right would always win ● And love would never end ● This is my grown-up Christmas list
The reconciliation theme woven through this chorus is far from subtle. No wars. Hearts are healed. Friendships strengthened and renewed. Right and love always win. The list is easily a practical application of the angel’s promise of “peace on earth and goodwill to all mankind” (Lk. 2:14). It’s also a picture of God’s promise when he makes everything new again (Rev. 22:5).
I wonder what our list might include today if we were given such an opportunity. If we were to move beyond the selfish, materialistic-driven nature of Christmas, what might we really want to see or experience?
Would civility appear on the list? Can you imagine people actually being respectful and kind to each other? People can use active listening skills to understand first before being understood. Words like “please” and “thank you” were heard on a regular basis. Unloading in the social network becomes a thing of the past, while anger and frustration are dealt with responsibly. A “kind” tone in our voice is heard, while our language is filled with respect.
Where would truth appear on the list? For the past thirty plus years truth has taken a hit. The postmodern world has blurred the line between what is true and what is a lie. Personal opinion has overridden imperial evidence, and in the process “expert insight” has been discredited. Labeling people has always been easier than processing the information, but even that seems heightened today. And along the way Christians failed to live Truth with the world knowing too many of us are hypocrites. Recovering truth, beyond repenting from the lies, means stripping away preconceived ideas and cultural norms we’ve embraced.
How much is diversity appreciated in a society often longing and pushing for uniformity? Color, wealth and regional roots are part of any society’s make up. But the drive for uniformity keeps some at arm’s length while inciting fear in the rest. We’re naturally suspicious of outsiders, but that mistrust doesn’t mean it’s a right feeling to own.
Civility, truth and diversity are absolutely mature wishes to long for. They certainly can be rooted in the character and presence of Jesus. And more importantly, we don’t have to wait for others to implement those qualities, we can own them ourselves.
Soli Deo Gloria!
(i.e. only God is glorified!)