Christmas Conspiracy

Every year at some point, I say the words, "I hate Christmas!" and what I really mean by those words are that fact that I hate the shopping, the commercialism, the taking of Christ out of Christmas. This year early on, I threatened to say those words because I have a family member who is big into buying a crazy amount of things for the kids. I love to give gifts, and I put a great deal of thought into my gifts most of the time, but I hate making gifts that no one appreciates and buying gifts that no one needs and are unwanted. I get frustrated knowing that my house is overflowing with things we do not need, yet there are those who do not have clothes, food, or a place to live. I do not mean to sound ungrateful, I just do not think Christmas should be about giving to those who have too much, but about the fact that God sent his Son in the form of a helpless little baby. How wonderous and special that is! If our family had a definite need and someone was able to meet that need, how very grateful we would be and special that gift would be. Giving to the needy and less fortunate are the kinds of gifts we should be giving.

Christmas is about the birth of Christ, and I intend to let this Christmas be about Christ - to wonder at the miracle of His birth, to recognize that He was born of a virgin, that He was God in a baby's body, that He took on a wretched body in order that He might one day die and save us all from the certain death we would each face. He died so that we may live - isn't that awesome? Is there any greater gift?

I read an article on the Advent Conspiracy webpage about a man who gave his dad some coffee beans. Do you know what the coffee beans were for? They represented time sharing life stories while drinking coffee together. This year I hope you give one another some "coffee beans," and please know that I do not intend to say this year, "I hate Christmas!" It is going to be a simpler time for me. I bought my gifts, and I am excited to see everyone open them. While some are toys, I've tried to remain simple. I came across this commercial from Advent Conspiracy, and it really clicked for me, so I wanted to share. You may not want to give the gift of water, but I encourage you to give in the way that is meaningful and real. I hope you enjoy. I LOVE Christmas - no shopping stress for me this year.