A CHRISTMAS STORY

A CHRISTMAS STORY

The giving of gifts has been an important part of the celebration of Christmas for centuries. Could it be that this tradition began partly because of the gifts that the Magi gave to the infant Jesus on that first

Christmas morning so many years ago?

As I think back over the years in which my family has exchanged gifts, the year 1963 stands out. My father had died in October (I was 6). Finances were tight so Mom informed me and my brother Ray that we might not have the type of Christmas we were accustomed to having. I couldn’t understand why of course (because of my age), but was still eager to see if Santa was going to bring me the one thing I really wanted, an authentic Lionel Train Set. To me, life wouldn’t be worth living if I didn’t get it.

On Christmas, Ray and I hurried out of bed looking to see if the things we wanted were under the tree. To my surprise and disappointment, the Lionel Train Set was not there. What was there though were some new gloves, some winter socks, and a nice new winter coat. Yes, there were a few other toys, but NOT the one I really wanted.

As I think back on that Christmas morning, I’m reminded that God doesn’t always give us what we want, but rather gives us what we need. That winter was extremely harsh and the gloves and socks and coat came in very handy! The toys, they were played with and forgotten about a few weeks later. But a few months later I got what I really needed, a father! You see, on that Christmas Day mom introduced our family to a man named Virgil, who in April of 1964 became my step-father. And over the years he proved to be much more valuable than anything that was under the Christmas tree in 1963.

So, I ask you, what is the true joy of Christmas? To me, its not the giving or receiving of gifts, but rather being in the presence of those that we love and those that truly love us! Looking back, the gifts of the Magi – gold, frankincense, and myrrh – were all costly gifts. But their value pales in comparison to the one those Magi came to see, the babe in the manger, the promised Messiah, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ Himself! God loved us enough to send Him to us and once we realize who He is and what He’s done for us, we – like the Magi-- should be thankful and bow down and worship.

This Christmas season try to concentrate on the presence of the people in your life and not the gifts they give, or don’t give! That was God’s gift to us more than 2000 years ago, the gift of His presence. That’s why Jesus is called “Emmanuel – God With Us.” This year celebrate the presence of God, family, and friends! And if you’re spending it alone, don’t forget God loves you and He offers you the greatest gift and friend you could ever possess, Himself! And He promises that His presence will never leave you, never!

MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Jack

PS – I received that Lionel Train Set in 1964. What joy it gave me. Just wish I still had it!