Real Gifts

December has arrived once again, and I ask the same question, "Where has the year gone?"

This month is normally a very busy month for most with all the holiday gatherings, jolly festivities, cooking, baking, and decorating. There is the year-end tax prep and organizing for families, businesses, and organizations, alike. Many find themselves overspending and racing from one activity to the next.

This year, I am intentionally slowing down. I am saying yes to "less activity", and no to "additional stress". Last night, I was breathing in the cold, crisp air as I walked our dog up the driveway. I looked up at the glistening moon as it shone so brightly and prayed for our nation, our land, and all those who are feeling lonely, fearful, and grieved during this holiday season.

I am trying to focus on important things. It's not about the perfect Christmas wrap, the table decor, the expensive gifts, the delicious food, and the outdoor lighting. Don't get me wrong; I enjoy Christmas just as much as the next person. It is by far my favorite holiday! A great Hallmark Christmas movie, some "Grinchy" pjs, the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree, and a cup of hot chocolate are my kind of cozy evening!

But somewhere in the middle of all the commercialism, Jesus often gets lost. The focus often falls on the gifts. And we forget that we are surrounded by daily gifts that we so often take for granted.

Our health, human kindness, treating others with decency and respect, having warm water in the tap and a closet full of clothing choices, being able to get groceries at a local market, proper education, the freedom of religion, the ability to vote & have an opinion. These are incredible gifts that not every human has.

At the end of my life, I cannot take anything with me. Nothing from this world will matter. It is only the treasures I have stored in Heaven that will have meaning. And that which I have sown into the people that remain behind. It is Jesus, the reason for the season.

So, this December, I will ponder.

I will celebrate and enjoy the lights, the festivities, the baking, and the tree. But, most importantly, I will not race through the month. I will take the time to see the gifts that I am surrounded by each day. I will breathe it in. I will be ever grateful for my Savior who was born--the one we celebrate on Christmas Day. And I will try to be more like Him as I encounter His children.

"Red and yellow, black and white, we are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world." We are ALL His. We are ALL His gifts. Let us remember the REAL GIFTS this Holiday season.