I love Christmas! I love the 'why' of Christmas. Jesus! I love the music of Christmas, especially the music that tells the 'why' of Christmas. The music can be carols of centuries past or new worship music, that tells the same story in a new, fresh way. I also enjoy the 'sappy' secular tunes, they too can pull my heart strings because they remind me of my past. I love the old Christmas movies and the 'sappy' Hallmark Christmas movies. I love to see my home decorated to celebrate the season.
The urgency for me to 'blog' on a Monday a.m. stems from the sappy side of my emotions. Each Christmas old memories flood my brain and heart. I recall the emotions of being a child, wild beyond excitement for Christmas day. The anticipation was too much to handle, so I was the ultimate snoop and rarely surprised Christmas morning (but always happy). I appreciate now how much my mom and dad (especially my mom) did to make our Christmas's the best day ever. Money was tight and sacrifice was big and we were blessed.
I recall my sweet daughter who now resides in heaven. Her concern over not having a gift for Don and I on our anniversary (Christmas time) so she went to a neighbor to ask if she would help her buy us a gift. The neighbor did just that. I still tear up over this kind act as I look at the Holly Bush given to us from Kara (because of a neighbor who 'got it').
I remain acutely aware of my Zambian and Honduran friends who are starving, while I bake. I can give and give (and I do) but it is never enough to fill all of the tummies with needed food. I cry.
In experiencing of all these emotions that replay each year and I am glad they do, I know that Christmas is not about receiving. It is never to be about receiving. It is about giving! Giving time and words of encouragement to one who is alone! Giving time to serve someone or thing that needs help. The need for help, encouragement, love and hope are greater than any wrapped gift under a tree.
It started with God's gift to us His son, Jesus, to cover my sins and payment so I will have eternal life. I do not have work for this gift, I just need to accept it and Him. That is it!
I do not have to decorate, bake or over buy in an effort to make someone happy for Christmas! Their happiness is not dependent upon me. Their presence should never determine my contentment with Christmas. My focus on the giver of the perfect gift, Jesus, is truly a good Christmas.
Here is what Jesus says about Christmas. "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep..." John (Bible) 10-11.
" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. " John (Bible) 3:16
In my sappiest moments of longing and wishing something was different than reality, I must come back to the ultimate gift that affects my eternity and I am humbled. The first Christmas and each one after that was all about us and the ultimate in gifts. Savor your gift from Him, it is priceless.
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