This season
I have really enjoyed the sermons this
season. They talk about us not getting stressed, but enjoying the
time we have with the family. I don't have to make a huge fru fru
about everything, but I want to make it special. The kids don't have
to have every gift they had last year, and we don't have to keep
every tradition (although some traditions are fun and important).
The important thing is being together..playing games (yes, we should
play video games with the kids some), singing, dancing, exercising
like playing soccer together, watching movies (but not all day),
cooking together, eating without the TV distraction. Listening to
them is important. They don't need extravagance, they just need us.
Another important thing is for them to
see us serving others. This includes our parents. Maybe the kids
know someone that doesn't have much money. They can pick out a toy
for that friend. Maybe there is a neighbor that never comes out of
the house. Maybe you could take them some home made cookies. Ask
God to show you ways to serve, and I'm sure he will put someone in
your mind that needs a smile, or a hug.
God wants us to shine his joy and mercy
in others. We shouldn't be greedy with His love. He wants us to
share it freely and sharing the birth of Jesus with our family,
friends, coworkers, neighbors, and strangers is a wonderful way to
emulate what he has done for us.
Lord Jesus, help me to show Jesus to
our kids during this season. Show me ways to not just see the kids
in the other room, but to be with them as we celebrate the birth of
the Lord. Also, help me to model serving to them. Show me people
that need our love and care. Thank you for our families and I pray
that we have quality time together as we celebrate Your birth.
In Jesus name
Amen