From Humbug to Hallelujah: A 5-Day Christmas Transformationনমুনা

From Humbug to Hallelujah: Searching for Contentment

Restless.
Jittery.
Foot tapping.
Mind wandering.
Checking your phone just to check it.

In a world that celebrates “living in the moment,” we struggle to truly stay present. The reality is that the present often feels uncomfortable or unsatisfying—and Scrooge knew this feeling well. As the Ghost of Christmas Present guides him through scenes of his current Christmas, Scrooge reacts with disdain: his nephew Frederick’s joyful party, the long line of hungry people waiting for soup, the humble but warm cheer within the Cratchit family home—none of it is enough for him.

In Scrooge, we see a reflection of ourselves. Whether it’s the frustration of not affording the newest gadget or the reluctance to attend yet another gathering, discontentment has a way of creeping into our hearts, especially around the holidays. And when we do find ourselves in those precious holiday moments—a candlelight service, a family gathering, or watching loved ones open gifts—our minds often drift to what’s next or to all the things left on our to-do lists.

The message from the Ghost of Christmas Present is clear: contentment isn’t about what you’re striving for or what you left behind; it’s about choosing to fully embrace what you have today. These moments are a gift—temporary, fleeting, and precious.

The Apostle Paul captures this idea well in his letter to the Philippians: “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:12-13). Contentment is not about perfect circumstances; it’s about seeing God’s presence in every situation, no matter how humble or imperfect it may be.

As we follow Scrooge’s journey, God invites us to do the same: to find contentment in our “now.” We may not have everything we want, and life might not look the way we envisioned, but what if we sought joy in the little moments, in what is rather than what isn’t?

In those scenes Scrooge witnessed—the laughter at Frederick’s party, the solidarity in the soup line, the love in Bob Cratchit’s home—he was surrounded by joy he didn’t recognize. And yet, those blessings are there for us too, if we’re willing to pause and be truly present.

Reflection Question: Where do you often find yourself feeling restless or discontent? What do you think is at the root of that feeling? How might you practice presence and contentment this season, fully embracing the beauty of what you have today?