In the mad rush, often mistaken for living abundantly, many people forget the reason we celebrate Christmas. Instead, so many people run around buying gifts, trying to outdo each other with the gifts they buy and give to family, friends, and co-workers. I have nothing against the giving of gifts. However, Christmas is a time of sharing, not just gifts, but the love that was first shown to us by God, when He gifted us with His only son, Jesus Christ.

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

I would rather spend quality time with loved ones than receive gifts. Do not get me wrong, I love getting presents like anyone; however, I have just about everything that money can buy, and I would much rather you gave me the gift of quality time with you. Time to sit and share the memories of lived experiences and to discuss the beautiful gift that was bestowed upon us thousands of years ago. A gift that remains priceless and continues to bring so much joy and peace to the hearts of many.

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR REFLECTION

Christmas is a time to reflect on our lives and on the life that was sacrificed for our salvation. Perhaps you do not believe in Jesus Christ, then this letter is probably of no use to you. Then again, maybe you were directed to read this letter in your search for meaning to your life. Our lives have meaning when we have a purpose, when we know the purpose for our creation. Part of that purpose lies in the realization that the gift of our life is also a gift we can share with others. We can share love, show kindness, and C.A.R.E. for each other. Despite the chaos and wars going on around us, I pray this letter may remind you of LOVE, a love that is so majestic and unconditional. Let us remember that love can move mountains. More importantly, let us start looking at each other through the lens of love instead of fear. Only perfected love can cast out the fear that is driving so many people to commit acts that are not loving to each other.

MY CHRISTMAS WISH

I wish that the eyes and hearts of everyone will be opened to the power of love. I pray that we will come to realize that PEOPLE are what’s valuable. I hope that we will shift our perspective and grasp the truth that THINGS are to be enjoyed and PEOPLE are to be loved. As you spend time with family and friends, take a moment to fully appreciate the love that was involved in your creation. Then share that love, let someone know how much they mean to you. It does not require an expensive gift despite what the advertisements say. Love is more than giving someone a material gift, it is being open in your heart, mind, and soul to the gift of love present in each other, just waiting for an opportunity to express itself.

JOY AND PEACE TO YOU

May the joy that is so abundant in this season, which comes from knowing that God loved us so much that He sent His only begotten son to save us, fill your heart, mind, and soul with contentment this season. I pray that the peace that surpasses all understanding may also reign in your heart, mind, and soul now and through the New Year. Our time on this earth is a gift, may you share that gift in love with many others. MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR.