BLACK FRIDAY, SAYS WHO?

Here in the United States, today is the major shopping day before Christmas. Some camp out in lines for days in front of stores which are offering a super sale on limited qualities of supposedly "must have" items. It is nice to be excited about Christmas and shopping but do we lose the true meaning of Christmas when we try desperately to get a good bargain or a must have item? Just some food for thought.

According to my search sources The Philadelphia Police Department first coined the term in 1966 because of the mayhem, confusion, and accidents on this day caused by a surge of shoppers. Years later merchants did not like the negative connotation of the original meaning so decided to make it have a positive meaning as "being in the black" a term used by accountants to indicate profit. Although as crazy as it sounds, fights still break out and there have even been deaths. What a way to welcome in the season of the Saviors birth.

Why not try to start this season having peace on Earth and good will to men? A novel idea wouldn't you say? Do not think you have to keep up with the "world's" standards, for after all we are celebrating the birth of the King, a child in a manger. Try to make this time of year different if you have been caught up in chaos and confusion.

Do not focus so much on needs and wants but try with God's help to make things different this year.

Hebrews 13:5(NIV)'Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has a said"Never will I leave you or forsake you."'

PRAYER: I am excited about Christmas, not for the sake of getting gifts but for the love of helping others. Forgive me Lord if II have lost my focus at this time of year. Help me not be greedy. Help the love of Jesus shine through me to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.