Christmas Time Thoughts

Can you feel the anticipation building? Not only will school soon be out, but Christmas will be here before we know it. I personally enjoy the Christmas season more than any other holiday we celebrate. I love the special music we hear and sing, all of the decorations, and especially the extra time spent with family and friends. For my family, this Christmas will be unlike any other we have experienced so far. First of all, Emily is now old enough to begin understanding about Santa Claus, putting up a Christmas tree, and most importantly celebrating the birth of our Savior. Also, with Theresa’s due date quickly approaching, our family is about to again change forever. Through all of the last minute preparations for Christmas and a new baby, God is quietly reminding me to stay focused on what really matters in this life. The purpose of our life as a disciple of Christ is to know God and make Him known. The only reason we celebrate Christmas is because of Jesus Christ. The giving and getting of presents is nice, but this should never overshadow God’s gift of salvation. Just as the birth of our new baby will soon bring change to my family, the birth of Jesus changed the world forever. He is the reason that we have hope this Christmas season. He is also the only hope for a world that tries harder each year to remove Christ from Christmas. My prayer is that you find rest, peace, and encouragement during this holiday season as you celebrate Jesus.