Children are a
heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands
of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Psalm 127: 3-4 (NIV)
Now
that my sons are grown and out on their own, gathering for the holidays is no
longer a certainty. School and work schedules conspire against maintaining that
cheery family unit gathered around the Thanksgiving table or the Christmas
tree. My new found freedom was welcome at first. But now I find myself eagerly
seeking out those rare opportunities to be together as we were when they were
children.
As
Christians, we know that Christmas is so much more than generic holiday
greetings, exchanging overpriced gifts, and watching Frosty the Snowman on TV.
The birth of Jesus is more cause for celebration than just about any other
occasion. That is why being with family at this time of year is so meaningful. Taking
special time out from our worldly cares and responsibilities to give glory and
honor to God; to thank Him for sending his son into the world so that we might
be saved and reconciled to Him, that is truly cause for thanksgiving.
So
what do we do when we can’t be together for the holidays? We share our love in
any and every way possible: through cards, on the phone, via email, even
Facebook. The connection is still there, and the joy of knowing that we have
Christ and each other.
Heavenly father,
thank you for the precious love of family as we celebrate the birth of your
son, Jesus Christ.
©
2011 G. Francis Johnson
1 comment:
Well written!! Not only do we have precious family members through birth but through belonging to the family of God.
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