It’s not the presents under the tree nor the shopping at the mall that make the holidays and Christmas joyful, it’s Love and Peace within us we seek.

• More than the presents under the tree, love is the greatest gift. “For God so loved the world He gave His only begotton son”. John 3:16.

• You’re happy that your children are healthy, joyful, talented, and smiling . Sometimes they may not be perfect but pure joy shines through it all.

• The children are sometimes rascal, curious, yet when parents speak they listen and obey.

• The family comes together to celebrate the holidays and Christmas, each heart yearning to hug one another, or missing each other from afar.

• It’s a time to forgive and leave the past behind and to not look back.

• Grandparents, parents, children, in-laws, and family laughing and remembering times they shared, some memories a challenge yet worthy of life’s mysterious journey.

• Then came uncles, aunties, and loved ones gathering to share the holidays.

• We love that special spirit that fills the cold winter air with a special warmth and fire.

• The joy you give when you invite someone who is away from their family and needing of cheer.

• And, importantly first children loving God, secondly children honoring their parents.

These gift are more than enough.  It reminds me what my wife Amy Lou said,  “Love is like a piggy bank, if you don’t deposit, there is nothing that will come back; unfortunately some children don’t want to come home for Christmas.”  It’s never too late to start seeking the greatest gift, giving more love and your time this Christmas.

Happy Holidays and Very Merry Christmas!