” . . . and it was always said of [Scrooge], that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God bless Us, Every One!” (Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol).

I’m always a little sad to see Christmas Day end. Honestly, I always feel a little let-down. Not because of any gift I didn’t receive or of anything lacking in the day, but because it seems like the end to the magical season that starts in November with Thanksgiving and carries through December.

I think the fictional character of Ebenezer Scrooge got it right. It may have taken nearly a lifetime, but he finally got it right. You can keep the spirit of Christmas alive beyond December 25 and throughout the year. You can honor the child born in the manger not only one day of the year but all the days of all the years.

There’ something about seeing colored lights and tinsel and decorations that brings out the childlike wonder in me. This time of year makes those who have departed from this world seem nearer than ever. I’m coming to love the season of Advent more and more as I get older.

But the magic of the season doesn’t have to end with December. I can still strive in small ways to bring peace on earth, good will to men. I can do my part to live in gratitude for that Jesus who grew out of that manger and into the Savior of the world.

I can even play Christmas music and watch those holiday movies when the urge hits me, even in the middle of hot July.

As I get older, gifts matter less. Seeing and adoring the Christ child matters more. May I never lose that wonder.