I agree with the song that Christmas “…is the most wonderful time of the year.” We radiate the spirit of giving and having compassion for others. We also become more aware of the spiritual side of life.

How do we continue this Christmas spirit into the New Year? It seems that Christmas brings us out of our cocoon of self-interest. When we emerge in December, we become aware of those around us. As soon as Christmas is over, however, we return to our own private world away from the wants and needs of others.

One way to carry over the spirit of Christmas is to visit others throughout the year. This will lift your spirits as well as the ones you visit. Nursing homes and shut-ins have the fewest number of visitors and volunteers during January and February. We must continue to include the lonely, homebound and institutionalized in our yearly schedule.

We give more at Christmas than any other time of the year. Continuing to give to the poor and needy on a regular basis, which will bring us personal satisfaction and a sense of contentment.

Sharing things with others such as a card, meal or phone call will make great gifts to be received over the next twelve months.

Christmas is a time of anticipation for children when they make out their wish list and visit Santa. Make next year an exciting time for them by providing attention to and activities for their enjoyment.

During Christmas we wish others a “Merry Christmas.” We need to cultivate that same kind spirit daily by saying something such as, “have a blessed day.”

Our spiritual awareness grows this time of year because of the emphasis of the Savior’s birth. Through church attendance, plays and music, we are all made more aware of God’s gift to us. This spirituality needs to be incorporated into our daily life.

We can enjoy the Christmas Spirit all year if we continue the same attitude. We will receive joy by helping others as we develop our gift of giving. Listening to Christian music will make us aware every day of God’s love. Attend church on a regular basis and let His presence give you peace in a troubled world.

The Christmas spirit is available throughout the year if we are available to receive it and then pass it on.

Steve Conwell is pastor of Maranatha Baptist Church, is heard mornings on WFLO and WVHL in “A Thought For Today.” His email address is SteveConwell@outlook.com.