The Gift of Christmas

My earliest Christmas memory occured when I was five years old. I remember my brothers (age 4, & 2) and I decorating the tree in our small home in the Oak Cliff section of Dallas. We were so excited! Christmas was nearly here. We went to bed that night in anticipation of a wonderful Christmas morning opening presents. We awoke early the next morning before Mom and Dad were up and ran into the living room to discover Santa had come that night! Perfectly gift wrapped gifts were under the tree! That's when my brothers (age 4 & 2) and I had a familiy conference. Our descion: to plunge right in and see what Santa had brought. We jumped right in and began opening boxes. Our first surprise was that the presents were dish towels, tools, shirts and socks--much to big for us. Our second surprise occurred when our parents came into the room with the fury of a Texas tornado.

My brothers and I had jumped the gun. Those gifts we opened were for our extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins! My mother had stayed up late the night before to wrap them. The recriminations began immediately. Being the oldest I was blamed. In my defense I said I was out voted by my brothers (ages 4 & 2). After a stern talking to we now understood that Christmas morning was still a couple of days away.

I think about that first Christmas memory this time of year. All the hustle, bustle and anticipation. As I shop the crowded stores and malls I wonder how many people will miss the true joy of Christmas. As Christians we know the true gift of Christmas: Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.

In 2 John 3 we find this verse: "Grace, mercy and peace be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love." (HCSB) Five great words describe the results of the gift of Christmas: grace, mercy, peace, truth and love.

May these be yours through Jesus Christ this Christmas season!

[This is my last post until after Christmas.}