One of the most sentimental memories from my childhood is Christmastime. The glow of the Christmas tree on the night of Christmas Eve. Candles lit throughout the house, special trinkets on display, festive music filling the air. The glowing fireplace filling the room with warm air, stockings hung on the mantel. Such beautiful traditions took place in this setting. Under the tree were beautifully wrapped packages–our family gifts, of course, as Santa had not yet visited. The sweetest gift we had to offer each other, however, could not be wrapped, but was symbolized by a small silver box that hung on our tree.
“Silver Boxes,” by Michael Bright
My words were harsh and hasty and they came without a thought.Then I saw the pain and anguish that my bitter words had brought.Bitter words that I had spoken made me think back through the past;Of how many times I’d uttered biting words whose pain would last.Then I wondered of the people I had hurt by things I’d said;all the ones I had discouraged when I didn’t use my head.Then I thought about my own life. Of painful words I’ve heard;and of the times I’d been discouraged by a sharp and cruel word.And now clearly I remember all the things I might have done;but, by a word I was discouraged and they never were begun.Lord, help my words be silver boxes.Neatly wrapped up with a bow; that I give to all so freely, as through each day I gladly go.Silver boxes full of treasure, precious gifts from God above;that all the people I encounter might have a box of God’s own love.
On a night where God’s love is at the forefront of our minds as we are thinking about the babe Jesus, it is a beautiful thing to share God’s love in the words we say to each other. Oh, that our words might be silver boxes!
As we are mindfully preparing for our Christmas this year, let’s look for ways to speak life to each other, and to encourage each other with words as sweet as honey. The best part about this tradition is that is costs nothing, yet it is truly meaningful!
Merry Christmas, friends!
Be encouraged by these posts as well!
- When God Calls Us to Do the Impossible Things - March 2, 2020
- Look to Him - February 17, 2020
- Thoughts From the Mom Who Needs Grace - December 16, 2019
Beautiful! Words are so powerful! I’ve been noticing that a lot recently. A well timed word can build up something beautiful, or destroy!
What a beautiful tradition and poem! Thank you for sharing. The silver box may have to appear under our tree, too!
What a cool tradition! I can’t definitely see how this would be a very special moment amongst family
We do something very similar. I love affirmations in the family. They are so bonding.
This is so true. “Family so often gets our worst. They are the ones on the front lines when life is stressful or frustrating.” This really resonated with me – so often when I am stressed or tired or overworked, my sweet husband is the one who bears the brunt of it. Thank you for this sweet reminder to love others through the power of our words!