“We lost, momma,” my oldest son informed me after the Ragin’ Cajun’s basketball game. As a team manager, his disappointment was understandable. It was their first loss of the season.

As a boy mom of three athletes, I’ve seen many seasons come, and many seasons go. The thrill of victory during those seasons energizes us and sends our spirits soaring. The disappointment of defeat, although discouraging, also creates a desire to improve and do better the next time.

Seasons are like that. For some, we can’t wait for them to end. For others, we want to hold on to and cherish. And still, some are like a roller coaster ride. During those, we just hang on for dear life.

A surprise season

Sometimes seasons take us by surprise. Sometimes we anticipate and even celebrate them.

As we near the end of the year, another season comes to a close.

With the birth of Christ, Mary and Joseph entered a new season in their lives. I’m sure the news that created this new season took them by surprise. They didn’t expect to enter their marriage with Mary’s pregnancy. Imagine the string of emotions that event created. However, they accepted it and honored God through it.

As we enter the Christmas season, let us begin it with gratitude for not only a baby in a manger but for Mary’s willing heart and Joseph’s obedience. And most important, let’s be grateful for God coming down to live among us and offering redemption for our sins once and for all.

“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21