Peace that passes pressure of presents
I picked up a personal present, a plaque. It says, "Keep Christmas Simple Celebrate Christ."
Not only do those words grace my walls, but so does my time-worn editorial comic, which is proudly framed in honor of my daughter Kasie, who was born early one Christmas morn.
The words and drawing by Mike Luckovich depict a little girl saying, "When your birthday's on Christmas, everyone's too busy with toys, gifts and merrymaking to remember it."
Jesus stands off to the side saying, "Tell me about it."
It's my prayer to shift my focus toward a manger and upward toward a Savior. No matter where I am whether it's in a car trying to get to one of our many grandkids or putting toys together, I can stop and ponder on what's truly the gift of Christmas.
That'll preach. That's the peace that passes all pressure of presents and packaging of the holiday. Oh my goodness I am so grateful for the gift that came on that Bethlehem Morn, The Prince of Peace, Immanuel, God with us.
Christ Himself spoke the gift of these words, " And do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things."
Many of you are in need this Christmas. Hospitals, funeral homes, lack of funds, loss and desperation are the picture of your Christmas morn. I have good news of great joy which will be for all the people; Christ the Savior was born and He gave His life that you might have every precious promise you need for living this life. He loved you with His life.
As faithful followers of this Gift of Christmas, may we be in turn "cheerful givers" to those in need of hope and life.
This is my Christmas prayer, "That our giving might result in helping to supply needs of the needy. I pray that as we live the life of faith, kindness, love and mercy. That our lives overflow in many expressions of thanks to God, "So others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies our confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And may we be ever so mindful of the surpassing grace God has given us. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" 2 Cor 9:13-14 Joy to the World, the Lord is come.
Merry Christmas, y'all.
Kandi Farris, a freelance correspondent, also is a speaker on matters of faith and values.
This story was originally published December 18, 2015 at 7:05 PM with the headline "Peace that passes pressure of presents ."