This morning I am pondering why I love Christmas. There is just something about it that creates JOY. A feeling of excitement and anticipation. And then I wonder how they must have felt thousands of years ago when they were waiting for the Savior to be born? Would I have felt even more joy then? Would I have been afraid? Would I truly understand?
Obviously what I love most about Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus. But there are many other small parts I enjoy celebrating along with that. I LOVE Christmas music, apple cider, Christmas movies, a warm home on a snowy day (or lack thereof so far!), Christmas lights and decorations around the house, and I really love thinking for the ‘perfect’ ideas to give as gifts. I don’t really like surprises for myself – but I love to give them!
I know it’s early yet, but here are my 2 favorite “giving” opportunities so far this year.
1. A $20 bill.
Instead of doing stockings this year, my mom and dad took us out for supper to Sioux City. Along with that, we were challenged to go to the mall with a $20 bill they had given us and find someone to bless with it. We could either pay for part of their bill or just find someone to give it to. As I walked around the mall I prayed that God would show me the right person to bless. I felt He was telling me to go to JCPenney. Just seemed more logical than some of the “ritzier” stores where people can probably afford things. I was drawn to a younger girl (probably my age) who was pregnant and walking around slowly, sloughing her feet, with no sign of a smile. I watched her for awhile and then she stopped to look at something. I asked her if I could give her $20 and she instantly got tears in her eyes. I told her I just wanted to bless her this Christmas, and she could use it on whatever she needs. She started crying and laughing and got the biggest smile on her face. I gave her a hug and wished her a Merry Christmas. Was it a blessing to her? It sure seemed like it. But it was definitely a bigger blessing to me!
2. A gift for David… I couldn’t wait to give it to him because I thought it turned out so cool!
This is a picture of David at a controlled burn this summer. I got a hold of the picture from the local newspaper and turned it into a canvas print with the verse on it. He had asked earlier in the year if there was any way we could get a copy of the picture and I kind of blew it off. I like to remember when people say things throughout the year and surprise them with a special gift later on!
Anyway, I wish you all a very blessed Christmas! I know for us it gets to be extremely busy going here and there, but family time is always a blessing. I pray that you can also take a moment to remember Jesus this season – and feel good about giving to others.
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