The Important Gifts
Do you remember as a child the anticipation of Christmas? It seemed as though Christmas, like birthdays, never came. From one year to the next was, and I imagine remains, the equivalent of an eternity through the eyes of a child. However, as adults we know all to well that the 365 days that separate Christmas are so often very short.
Holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years, often become mileposts in our lives. This is because it is hard to believe how quickly time has passed since the last time we celebrated. We look at these holidays and often reflect on where we were or what we were doing the last time we celebrated and then we return to the present reality in a daze wondering where the year has gone.
I read recently that one reason that time goes by quicker for adults than for children is because the hope for a realized future is shorter (isn’t that encouraging?). In other words, time is running out. As children, Grandpa and Grandma were ancient, and their years of life were measured in terms such as eternity. Yet, as adults Grandpa and Grandma aren’t that old anymore, in fact they’re pretty young now that I think about it. But the truth is our futures are not very distant, in fact, the future is now.
So, what does all of this have to do with Christmas? Everything. We cannot wait until next Christmas to give the gifts that really matter. We cannot wait until a future time to say, “I love you.” We cannot put off giving someone a hug. We cannot pass by another opportunity to forgive or encourage or bless. These are the truly important gifts of Christmas that need to be given everyday.
Live your future today!
God bless you,
Pastor Gary
