December 20, Christmas
I love the Christmas season. I enjoy everything about it. The music, the lights, the food (especially the food) the family gatherings and the presents. As I was thinking about Christmas this morning something hit me. For the first time since Debbie and I have been married no other family members except our immediate family will be present on Christmas day. Debbie's Mom didn't want to make the drive from Virginia. I don't blame her, she is 70 plus now.
That led me to thinking about my parents. The last Christmas I spent with my parents and sisters all together was early 1990s. My parents moved to Walla Walla and divorced a few years later. I remember the awesome Christmas experiences I had growing up in California. We always had a huge family gathering and played board games on Christmas Eve. After a incredible turkey dinner all the children we're allowed to open one gift. Christmas morning Santa's presents were waiting around the tree. I really miss my parents during the holidays. Dad and Mom loved me unconditionally and were always there for me.
You've heard me say on more than one occasion, I believe Satan's number one attack on America today, is the Christin home and family. Think with me how many families today will not share Christmas together because of divorce, parents in jail, not knowing who parents are, parents don't want to be with children etc. Think with me how many children will not have much to open, if any on Christmas morning. For many, Christmas brings a time of sadness and not joy.
I believe it is up to us, God's children, to help as many have a glorious Christmas as possible. I don't mean by giving them money or presents (even though that is helpful) but by showing them what Christmas is all about - JESUS! When your doing the last minute shopping, be kind and courteous. If you know someone who will spend Christmas alone, go by and see them or invite them over for dinner. Ask Christ to show you and give you opportunities to serve others.
One more thing, I remember never reading the Bible or praying before we dug into presents on Christmas morning. My Mom truly loved Jesus, Dad could care less. To the Dads and men, lead your family Christmas morning by opening the best present first, the Word of God. Read the Christmas story and pray, then enjoy the incredible blessings God has given.
That led me to thinking about my parents. The last Christmas I spent with my parents and sisters all together was early 1990s. My parents moved to Walla Walla and divorced a few years later. I remember the awesome Christmas experiences I had growing up in California. We always had a huge family gathering and played board games on Christmas Eve. After a incredible turkey dinner all the children we're allowed to open one gift. Christmas morning Santa's presents were waiting around the tree. I really miss my parents during the holidays. Dad and Mom loved me unconditionally and were always there for me.
You've heard me say on more than one occasion, I believe Satan's number one attack on America today, is the Christin home and family. Think with me how many families today will not share Christmas together because of divorce, parents in jail, not knowing who parents are, parents don't want to be with children etc. Think with me how many children will not have much to open, if any on Christmas morning. For many, Christmas brings a time of sadness and not joy.
I believe it is up to us, God's children, to help as many have a glorious Christmas as possible. I don't mean by giving them money or presents (even though that is helpful) but by showing them what Christmas is all about - JESUS! When your doing the last minute shopping, be kind and courteous. If you know someone who will spend Christmas alone, go by and see them or invite them over for dinner. Ask Christ to show you and give you opportunities to serve others.
One more thing, I remember never reading the Bible or praying before we dug into presents on Christmas morning. My Mom truly loved Jesus, Dad could care less. To the Dads and men, lead your family Christmas morning by opening the best present first, the Word of God. Read the Christmas story and pray, then enjoy the incredible blessings God has given.
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