The Gifts of Christmas

Let me tell you something about myself.  I am just a big kid wrapped up in an adult body. I know that is shocking to you.  After all, I am a pastor.  I am supposed to be serious all the time.  No play time. No joking.  Just focus on what matters. 

I’m sorry, but that’s just not me.  One of my favorite aspects to being the father of two sons was that I could buy them Christmas gifts that I had always wanted.  And then I could play with those toys, all the time making it look like I was being a good father spending time with my sons.  (By the way, they know it. They probably knew it back then).

            Though my boys are now grown men, I still like to play. I golf and fish.  I also plan to hang a mini basketball goal in the attic of my home when it is built.  And then there is Christmas.

            I love Christmas.  I love the songs, the decorations, the parties, the food, and the gifts. I love to receive gifts. I love to give gifts.  Again I will say it. I love Christmas.

            And here is the thing I love the most about Christmas.  All of the above list pale in comparison to this one thing.  I love the fact that God stepped into our world, became one of us, and lived with us. I love that we can now know Him in a personal manner because of what He did for us. 

            Each year I read this little book to the boys and girls of our church entitled, “The Sounds of Christmas.”  The final line says, “Christmas, the birthday of Jesus. The happiest time of the year.”  That’s what I love most about Christmas.  I hope you will celebrate and enjoy with me this happiest time of the year. I trust you will have a Merry Christmas.