What does the last week of November signal to you? For me, it is a bonus time to get a few things finished or to get a head start before December arrives. The tradition of sending Christmas cards is one that I love. And on the last week of November, I set a goal to get them ready to mail.

What do you think about sending or receiving Christmas cards? Do you believe digital options are what everybody uses now? I researched only a few minutes and discovered some encouraging news about the custom. Even though you might not think this, it was stated that there is evidence the younger generation likes to send them. They enjoy the break from digital and the creativity of a card. Wallpics.com stated, “Despite modern challenges, the Christmas card endures because it satisfies something uniquely human: the need for tangible, lasting symbols of connection.”

I grew up with the tradition of sending Christmas cards. We received many, and checking the mail each day was a blast. My mother tried to complete the task, but eventually she would ask for help and one of us would sit at the card table checking her addresses, and sliding the card in, licking the stamp, and making a stack of ready to mail cards. It is a tradition I’ve carried into my life. The personal mail reminds me of faithful relationships and provides a unique connection to others that devices can minimize. But I’m not bashing devices, blessings indeed.

Let’s think about the card. They can be eye candy with their beauty and creativity. Whether a card comes with glitter, three-dimensional art, gold and silver letters, vellum lining, shiny graphics, embossed or just a plain card with a simple image, receiving one is happy mail! What other time of year does mail come so creatively portrayed on a piece of paper with thoughtful words inside declaring GOOD NEWS? Not just good news but THE Good News.

Although I’ve not finished sending mine, completion is very near. Are you ready to mail yours? Or are you thinking of not sending Christmas cards for the first time this year? I think even those of us who love the tradition are tempted in this way. Maybe your list is long and it seems overwhelming. Or perhaps you think you are the only one that sends them anymore? I want to encourage you not to give in to these ideas.

5 reasons to send Christmas cards

1. It’s Real mail – People love to get it and it’s not a bill or junk mail and will be received well.
2. Use as a Prayer Prompt–  I know a family that keeps every card they receive. In the coming year they pull a card and pray for that person or family.
3. Each Can be Recycled – Some people keep the cards using the imagery to make other crafts, or ornaments for the next year.
4. It’s stirs up good feelings – Each card represents a relationship and is a personal act of love. I’ve been known to keep them from year to year.
5. The Memories – Sending cards through the mail seems like it’s from another era. Keeping this tradition alive gives people a few moments in their day to reflect on the family or friend who sent them the card.
6. BONUS REASON: Because you care – You can share a tract with lost family member, or friend. It’s an extra touch and it gives that person time to read the tract and ponder their eternity.

When someone makes the effort to purchase the cards, fill out the cards, and mail the cards, that is a thoughtful act! Whether you enclose a photo or a gospel tract or just your signature, receiving them is a blessing. Yes, it may require some sacrifice of your time and money, but it is worth it.

There’s no other way to look at it. It takes time, money, effort, and intention to send Christmas cards, but it is a virtuous and gracious expression. Talk about shining the Light into the darkness. Let this year restart this wonderful expression of the true Christmas message. Let’s keep this tradition alive and keep sending Christmas cards!

©Valerie Rumfelt