For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given. Isa. 9:6a TEV
Christmas day had arrived. Gifts were piled high around the Christmas tree. The family sat in a circle. Eight-year-old Emily volunteered to pass out the gifts.
I was enjoying watching others open gifts when six-year-old Brandon walked up to me and softly asked, "Can I be your Christmas present?" Overwhelmed by his request, I took him in my arms, assured him that he would be the best present I ever got, and lifted him onto my lap.
Long before Christmas Day arrives, big red bows adorn everything from toys to automobiles, implying that your loved-one couldn't possibly survive Christmas without "one of these." Secular music adds to the clamor, helping to drown out the voice of the Christ Child. We are swept into their promotions, so we shop and wrap, shop and wrap.
But stop a moment. Find a quiet time and place. And listen. Can you hear the small voice of the Christ Child over the clamor? He is asking, "Can I be your Christmas Present?"
Lord, help us to stay focused on the Christ of Christmas. Amen.
Madeline (NE)