Christmas Treasure

Christmas is my favorite time of the year.  Yes, you can hear me singing “Jingle Bells” or “Silent Night” in July.  I have actually had people stop, stare and then laugh at me for my July serenades.  I love the twinkling lights, colorful decorations, and the smell of Christmas cookies fresh out of the oven.  I love the once a year Christmas peanut butter/ chocolate fudge.   I just adore Christmas!

However, I recently had a thought.  What do I treasure about Christmas?

The Bible says that when the news was shared of Jesus’ birth Mary “treasured up” all the events and pondered them in her heart.  Of course, she knew her baby was God’s son, The Messiah.  However, I wonder if she suddenly realized at his birth what was ahead for the sweet little Jesus boy.  Maybe the whole host of heaven singing, the shepherds kneeling at the manger, and the wise men bringing gifts fully opened her eyes to what miracle lay before her.

Thinking about Christmas, I realized there are a few things I treasure in my heart-

*Squeals of joy from my now three year old grandson opening a gift. (Not so long ago, I loved hearing my now grown sons shouting as they opened their gifts).

*Carols of Christmas sung at the Christmas Eve service

*Visits from family and friends

*Christmas past reflections and remembering great times with my grandparents and my parents during this special time of year

*But most importantly, I treasure a baby born in a dirty manger who would later die on a cross for my sins.  I treasure the man Jesus Christ who defeated the grave.  I treasure the King of Kings who will one day take me to my eternal home.

Girlfriends, what is your Christmas treasure?

Merry Christmas sweet girlfriends!  I pray Jesus fills your home with love and laughter during this special season.