Season of Advent: Joy, Day 5

Season of Advent

Joy, Day 5

Reading:

“He puzzled and puzzled till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. Maybe Christmas, he thought…doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps…means a little bit more. And what happened then? Well, in Whoville they say…that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day. And then – the true meaning of Christmas came through, and the Grinch found the strength of ten Grinches, plus two!’”[1]

Reflection:

The fictional Grinch was an outsider looking in. He lived in a hell of his own making and projected his misery onto those around him. He assumed the season of Christmas and the joy it seemed to bring to the inhabitants of Whoville was a ridiculous and materialistic ruse. He was certain if he stole the presents and the decorations and the food the joy of the season would quickly dissipate, and everyone in Whoville would be left as miserable and empty as the Grinch. But that’s not what happened. Sans presents, decorations, and food, the people of Whoville were still joyous and celebrating. How could that be? Instead of condemning the Grinch for his devious thievery, they recognized his lonely, self-imposed imprisonment, took pity, and invited him to join them.

            For all the joy and merriment of the Christmas season, there are countless outsiders looking in – those who have lost loved ones, those stuck far away from home, those with no home, those isolated from others by choice or circumstance. More than anything else, Christmas is about finding unity and community with others. In Whoville that year, the recognition that the Grinch was not evil, but lonely and isolated, redeemed one forlorn soul and brought him back into a community of love, acceptance, and joy.

Closing Meditation:

Reflect on a person you know whom you could bring into your community this Christmas? What would that require of you? Ponder these questions during a time of quiet reflection.

Journal the thoughts and feelings that arise.

This daily series, Contemplative Christmas, is replacing my weekly Life Notes until January 6, 2026, when my weekly blog will resume. The thoughts expressed here are mine. To engage with me: ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Excerpt from How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Dr. Seuss, 1957.