The time nears when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. With the holiday time upon us, many of us are rushing out trying to figure out what to buy our family and friends again this year.

We all know the story of the wise men that brought the gifts to Baby Jesus. I firmly believe in the exchange of gifts at Christmas time, and see nothing wrong in that. However, we have let Christmas turn into how much we spend, the value of the gift we receive: In short, Christmas is more of how much did I get, rather than the thought behind the gift.

I have little in this life, and do not want much. I have all I need....a home that is need of repairs, a van that at present does not run, enough food to eat, and most of all the love of Jesus and my children and wonderful husband. I am poor in this life, but I have Jesus, therefore I am rich.

Rather than thinking of what we do not have, or try to keep up with the Jones', we should concentrate on the things of God. God said He would feed the sparrows, and therefore He would feed and take care of us. God will give us just what we need. If we really stop and think about it, how much do we really NEED in this life? How much instead of NEEDING are we actually WANTING?

My prayer is that God will continue to give my family what He sees fit that we need. We have no money, we have no material things, but we are rich in Jesus because we have His love in our hearts.

So with this Christmas season upon us once again, pause and think about what Christmas is really all about, the birth of Jesus. Gifts are nice, but remember that it truly is the thought that counts and not the price tag attached.

Merry Christmas!

© Copyright 2000 by John and Cindy Thomas