READY FOR CHRISTMAS?

How many people hear this question every day up til this very special holiday is upon us? I just heard it a few minutes ago. We can certainly get into a frazzle over Christmas if we forget it's true meaning and that of course is the celebration of Jesus' birth. Being caught up in decorating, mandatory greeting cards, parties, shopping, and making things just so, can detract from the real purpose of this wonderful time of year.

Particularly those with infants and young children why not start teaching them from the beginning the true meaning and not over focus on Santa Claus? A babe in a manger. It is as simple as that. No frills. No blinking lights. No inflatable cartoon characters in the front yard. No Rudolph or elves. Christmas is about Jesus being born. Make it a birthday party for the savior. Focus on what you can do to share His love with others. Teach this to your children through Angel Tree, Operation Christmas Child, and adopting a needy family. Don't let it turn into gimme, gimme, gimme.

Start 2013 by choosing to glorify Jesus and not shopping malls. Put Christ in the center where He belongs. Isaiah 9:6(NIV) says 'For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.'

PRAYER: I thank you for the miracle of Christmas. Thank you for the joy it brings. It also brings sadness when many feel sad, left out, and alone. Help me find a way to show your love to someone I come in contact with that needs it especially at Christmas. In Jesus' name. Amen.