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“I have always thought of Christmas as a good time: a kind, forgiving, generous, pleasant time; a time when men and women seem to open their hearts freely, and so I say, God bless Christmas.”  Charles Dickens

Can you believe Christmas is here? If your home is anything like ours, special decorations have been pulled from boxes and are all in place along with a Christmas tree that is glowing with lights and ornaments.

Christmas is a wonderful festive time of year!  It is also a perfect time to remember good news as stated simply in John 3:16: “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.”  In light of God’s marvelous, undeserved gift of Christ to each and every one of us, Christmas is a time to celebrate relationships by giving gifts to others. 

As you juggle your time this Christmas week, I’d like to challenge you to intentionally make the days after Christmas more special for yourself and others by giving some “gifts” you may not have thought about.  Consider giving one of the following:

1. Give the Gift of Appreciation. Make a phone call, send a text or email to someone who has had a positive influence on your life. Brighten their week with special personal words.
2. Give the Gift of Patience. Refuse to let hectic schedules, crowded transportation or stress from work or life take the Christmas spirit away. Be positive with others – even those who may not deserve it.
3. Give the Gift of Fun. Think of something simple but fun to do with a friend or family member. Surprise them and make their day!
4. Give the Gift of Reconciliation. Take the initiative to repair a broken or weakened relationship with a friend or relative before the New Year arrives. Simple chosen good words or actions could plant seeds for restoration.   

This week, let the Christmas spirit continue! In light of the gift of Christ, Emmanuel, God with us, give another gift or two.  

May your Christmas continue to be filled with Christ’s joy, peace, and hope!