“For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” ~Luke 6:38
As Christmas Day draws near, holiday joy fills the air.
Carols play continuously as last-minute shoppers bustle about. Everyone we meet greets us with “Merry
Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” in this – the most love-filled time of year! Homes are decorated for the season with
brightly lit trees, wreaths and sweetly-scented, flickering candles. Wonderful aromas waft through the air as
mothers bake savory treats for family and for sharing with friends and neighbors. Many holiday parties and special programs are
planned. Children are glowing with
excitement and expectation.
The majority of people are finished shopping for gifts and
are all set to enjoy the most important celebration of the year. But there are
always those who don’t get their shopping done until the last minute. Perhaps you’ve searched for weeks to find
just the right gift for that special person on your list or worked for many
hours to create one. Sometimes, that
perfect gift eludes us and we end up making an impulsive last-minute choice.
It warms our hearts to exchange gifts with others. We are hopeful that the gifts we’ve chosen or
prepared will reflect our love and appreciation for those who receive
them. Presents, cards, cookies and
crafts are symbols of thoughtfulness and love. As we give and receive these gifts, our lives are blessed. We are fulfilled.
Our gifts need not be elaborate or expensive. The simple things are often the most significant. One of the most poignant
stories of the Christmas season is that of The Little Drummer Boy. The story tells of a poor young boy who,
unable to afford a gift for the infant Jesus, plays his drum for the newborn
with the Virgin Mary's approval. The child seems to understand and smiles at
the boy in gratitude. He had given all
he had – from the heart!
Like the little drummer boy, we can give of ourselves – our time
and talents, whatever they may be. And in
giving all we have, we are certain to be blessed.
May you all have a blessed Christmas!
Published in the Charleston Gazette, Sunday December 19, 2010.
Published in the Charleston Gazette, Sunday December 19, 2010.
2 comments:
Beautiful Christmas time story. Your writing inspires me to appreciate the smaller things in life.
Thank you.
Love your stories, Peggey. I admire them, but this one in particular I like, as I feel I can relate to it.
Post a Comment