By Beryl Williams

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given, and His name will be Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6

What an amazing blessing that was given to us on that precious day. The fact is, that Jesus could not have given His life for our salvation if He hadn’t been born.

This is a time for celebration! I feel that during this time of year, our commission as His people, is to remind those who have forgotten, that Jesus is the reason for the season. So many people talk about how commercialized Christmas has become, that they don’t even enjoy it anymore. But, if we remember who this holiday is really about, there is no reason to be without joy.

It is also a special time of giving. Not to look at choosing gifts as a burden, but to rejoice in being able to express our love and appreciation for our family and friends. You know, it has become more and more prevalent these days to just give gift cards. In my own personal opinion, that is the easy way out. Not to say that some people have “everything” so a gift card seems logical.

But in general, I would like to challenge you to reconsider giving that in lieu of a present. Instead, consider the person you are buying for, who they truly are, what role they play in your life and what they mean to you. Take the time to do this and then find a special gift that reflects your heart for them. I can say from much experience, that it means so much to the receiver when they can tell you put thought and your heart into their gift. To see the sincere warmth and gratitude in their eyes makes the extra effort worthwhile.

It is also prevalent to give our children technology for special occasions. Instead of or in addition to that, why not think of a gift that will deepen the heart bond that every child wants to feel, even if they don’t express it.

Instead of a bunch of gifts, how about taking some of that money you would spend on gifts and use it for a nice family outing. In Colorado, we are so blessed that there is so much to do and so many places of interest to visit. My point is to use Christmas as an opportunity to deepen relationships in your family – husband and wife and parents and children. And don’t forget to include the grandparents. They often get left behind in all the business but they have so much to give, so let them give it. Sharing their life and past experiences is well worth the time to sit with them and listen.

In conclusion, I challenge you to look at Christmas as a joyous time of celebrating our Lord, celebrating those we love and deepening our relationships. Leave the commercialism behind and make this Christmas a season of quality and heart. Merry Christmas!