As we celebrate this holiday season, I hope that each of you can take the time to truly enjoy being with your families.
The magic and wonder that young children bring to this holy season lasts for just a few short years, but their experiences during these years will define how they think about Christmas for a lifetime.
Too often what our children will remember most is a blur of hectic activity, stressed and harried parents, and an over-abundance of food and presents.
What a wonderful gift we can give our children by modeling the true spirit of Christmas.
Almost compulsively we ask every child we see, “What do you want for Christmas?” Then we bemoan the commercialization of Christmas. But we have the opportunity to be part of the solution to the problems of materialism and greed in the world.
We can help our own children experience the joy of giving, which each of us knows in our hearts is more gratifying and more lasting than the short-term thrill of receiving.
Let your child make a card and pick out a bag of fruit to take to an older person, or count out change to put in the Salvation Army kettles outside of Walmart.
Tell the story of Jesus’ birth, not once, but many times.
Tell the history behind each ornament as you decorate your tree.
Pray together.
Let your child see the joy of Christmas in the things you say and do. That is the best gift you can give.
My Christmas wish for your family: May you taste the love in every Christmas cookie, Hear the joy in every song, Feel the warmth in every present, And in the midst of all the celebration May you make room for peace.
Wishing you well, Barbara