Christmas is…

As I visited with my son and his family recently, I was caught up in all the excitement of the jolly holiday. Because I would not be with them in December, I planned to celebrate Christmas during my Thanksgiving visit. This was especially enjoyed by the two young granddaughters, as you can well imagine, as they opened my Christmas gifts to them.

During a quiet moment one evening, Emily, nine, began talking about all the things she was hoping to get for Christmas. I could feel the tension of both parents who are living on the income of a soldier in one of the highest cost-of-living areas in the United States. As the quiet continued, I was warmed not only by the crackling fire in the fireplace, but as my daughter-in-law reminded Emily and Jacey that the Wise Men brought gifts to the baby Jesus; gold, frankincense, and myrrh. She asked them how many gifts the baby got and they answered her simultaneously, “Three.”

She went ahead and explained that if three gifts were enough for God’s only Son, then three gifts should be enough for two little girls. We talked about how Christmas is the day we celebrate Jesus’ birthday, and that He taught us the importance of giving to others.

Jacey is five, and had no trouble understanding this concept. Even two and three year olds are able to understand and appreciate the good feelings of making others happy. How many times have you feigned being sad and had a very young preschooler come to you with hugs and kisses to cheer you up?

You won’t have to look hard to find ways to do for someone less fortunate than yourself. Point out to your youngster several of these situations. Ask them what they might do to make things better for folks who may be struggling even for food, housing, or a warm coat to consider getting even one fun toy for Christmas.

If you don’t know anyone personally who is going through a hard time, ask the principal or guidance counselor at your child’s school, the pastor of your church, or even the manager of the local grocery store. They may not be free to give you names, but I feel certain they will be happy to act as a go-between to get items to a needy family.

Remember to pray every day for the family you will be trying to help. Each time you are shopping, add even one food item, or a small gift that is age-appropriate for the family. This won’t add too much to your total, but may add huge dividends for a child who may not be getting much for Christmas. Have your child with you as you deliver the things you have collected. Don’t forget to thank God that you and your child will be getting gifts for Christmas even though they may be less in number than in previous years.

I thank God that I witnessed two young girls learning from experience the true meaning of Christmas along with empathy for others. Bless each of you as you train up your child in the way he or she should go. Merry Christmas and Happy Parenting!

© 2013 Brenda Holland-Robinson