This entry means . . . we’re done! Done wrapping, baking, cooking, shopping. It’s the last thing we'll do before calling it a night and heading to bed. And, as always, it’s a time to reflect. Usually we reflect on a theme from this evening’s sermon, but tonight and in the last few weeks during Advent, we’ve reflected on a theme revealed in Christmas hymns.
For nine years Joel and I have tried to be the best parents we can be. One of the lessons we’ve worked so hard on at this time of year is to teach the kids that Christmas is not about what you get, but rather about what you give. It dawned on me this year that we’ve been wrong all along. Christmas isn’t about giving – in fact, it’s all about receiving. Yes, you read that right. No, I’m not delirious from fatigue. It’s been right under our noses the whole time. Don’t believe me? Hum a few bars: “Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let Earth receive her king.” Or “Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.”
Think of the most beautifully wrapped gift you receive this Christmas. The prettiest bow, the shiniest paper. Now imagine never opening the gift – in effect, never really receiving it. Just as you unwrap your gifts, don’t forget to unwrap the greatest one of all – the gift you were given of the Son. He was given to you – but you must receive him still. That’s what Christmas is about.
We wish you all a peace-filled Christmas, one with Christ received, and health and happiness in the coming year!
Merry Christmas,
The Fickels
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