This year, while I reflect back, I think most about how my family and I have grown closer. My wife and I have been making an effort as parents to raise our children to be spirit-led, giving, goal-oriented, eager to learn, and to love themselves. In thinking about parenting further yesterday, something that Pastor Matt Fry at our church illustrated during sermon. It's something I have thought about before, but never so deeply.
"How many presents from past years do you still have?" our Pastor asked. I started thinking... actually, not many. Things break, lose their utility, no longer fit, or simply begin the trek to the corner of the attic or to the donation box. There are only a couple of things that I have received as gifts that I actually can recall still having.
This question forced me to look at how I teach my children about gifts. Sure, we all want our kids to have more than we did as children, but are we teaching them what the holiday season is really about? Kids certainly need some toys to stimulate creative play, learning, and to offer them a needed release from necessary tasks. I know that my kids, although they do not get everything they ask for or would like, are certainly not lacking in the Christmas gift department.
I feel that the real joy of the holiday season can be found while you gather with family and friends to celebrate your blessings, and to offer praise to God for all that He does in your life. These are the things you will look back on in a couple of years and have fond reflections of. Would I like a new television or a new entertainment center? Sure I would, but in a few years, I'll forget I even had it.
This holiday season I wish you comfort and joy, and that you offer praise for the true blessings that you have received.
