The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
It’s here! It’s here! One of my favorite times of year is here – Christmas-time!
As I am writing this, The Polar Express is playing on my TV and we are about to the part that still makes me cry when I read it to my children: “The bell still rings for those who truly believe.” Um, yeah. I have a bell as one of my decorations … and, yes, I can hear it!
This is a busy time and, for many, a difficult time. Some try to turn it into a time of debate. Still others seem to take great delight in trying to out-Grinch the Grinch.
But for me, and I hope for my children, this is a time of joy. Why? Because I love the idea of thoughtful giving. I love the increased opportunities to make people smile. I love the parties, the presents and, yes, the parcels. I love the magic!
Parents, especially moms, don’t miss this special time to teach your children about giving. I think wish lists and letters to Santa are great, but make sure you take the opportunity to teach them to be giving, too. Think about people who may not have a pile of presents to open. Maybe the elderly need a visit and some child-crafted Christmas joy. Maybe there is a family you know (or don’t know but can find out about through a school or other organization) for whom you can be Santa. You haven’t really lived until you’ve done a drop-and-dash Santa stop and shaken the jingle bells as you run away! Maybe there is someone who has suffered loss who will be alone unless you reach out with an invitation to Christmas dinner.
During this hectic, fun season don’t forget a major priority as a parent – teaching. Teach your children to see through compassionate eyes. Teach them to love giving as much as receiving. And teach them to help create the magic around them … now and all year through.
“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38
“And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35b
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