Memories of Christmas

As soon as the first snowflakes began to fall I start to think of Christmas.  I’m sure my thoughts of Christmas come because of the warm childhood memories I have of this wonderful season of the year.  However, this time of year also brings me some sad thoughts.  Both my father and father-in-law each passed away (although in different years) shortly before Christmas.  I rejoice because both of these godly men are in heaven today.  How do I know?  Because both of them made a personal decision to receive Christ as their Lord and Savior.  As a result they were assured by God’s Word that eternal life was theirs to enjoy. “Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).

In spite of the absence of these dear men and the sadness that it brings, it is God who brings joy to my heart and to the hearts of each member of my family.  How is it possible to experience sadness and joy at the same time?  It is because of the gift of Christmas, which is Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

This Christmas I encourage you to take time to rejoice in the Christmas memories you have in spite of some of the sadness that may come your way.  Allow the joy of the gift of Christ to fill your heart.  Why not give a special gift to someone this year?  Here are some suggestions:

• The Gift of Listening.  You must REALLY listen.  No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response.  Just listen.
• The Gift of Appreciation.  Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds.  Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.
• The Gift of Laughter.  Clip cartoons and share them with others.  Share articles and funny stories.  Your gift will say, “I love to laugh with you.”
• The Gift of a Written Note.  It can be a simple “Thanks for the help” note or a full sonnet.  A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life.

• The Gift of a Compliment.  A simple and sincere, “You look great in red”, “You did a super job” or “That was a wonderful meal” can make someone’s day.
• The Gift of a Favor.  Every day go out of your way to do something kind for someone.
• The Gift of Solitude.  There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone.  Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.
• The Gift of a Cheerful Disposition.  An easy way to feel good is to make others feel good.