I love Christmas!

I just love Christmas time. There is something so special about spending time with family, doing things you don't normally do together. Like last week - all the girls in the family who were in Kamloops got together to bake and decorate sugar cookies. My mom, my sister, Arryn and Alex and my niece Christa, spent 6 hours together laughing and telling stories as we worked. It was a lot of fun; it was also super delicious! The rule was, if you broke a cookie you had to eat the evidence! Mmmmm! I broke my fair share! My great niece and nephew were there as well. They are 2 1/2 years old and 8 months old. Watching my mom, Greatgrandma, decorate cookies with Zekie, was priceless. Great memories.

We also ventured out into the bush for our annual hunting trip - for trees, that is! We saw deer and other critters as we walked through the hills looking for the perfect Christmas tree. It may not be a cultured, visually perfect tree, but because we go as a family and pick it out together, it is perfect for us.

I also enjoy attending the church Christmas programs. It is just such fun watching the kids and listening to the choirs.

I think, although, what I love most about Christmas, is celebrating the birth of my Saviour. In Kamloops, they say that only 3% of the population are professing believers - 3%! The community at large can be openly opposed to religion, in particular a faith that calls you to submit and be accountable. Yet, at Christmas, so many who don't know Christ, are drawn into Church, listen to the old carols herolding the birth of Jesus, and soften their hearts to the message of the Gospel. They don't feel the need to be on the defense, because, after all, it's Christmas! Peace, joy and goodwill to all men, right? What an amazing opportunity we have, as believers, to show the love of Christ to all we encounter during the Christmas season. Rather than being frustrated at waiting in line at the cash register, visit with those around you and bathe them in love. Show extra gratitude to those serving you and bless them. Be different; stand out - but in a soft, loving and gentle way. A way that makes all around you feel special and appreciated.

I love Christmas because I get to celebrate the birth of my King with family and friends. But, I also love Christmas, because I get to love, perhaps in a little more direct way, the non-believers that God has placed into my life. How much better could it get?

Blessings,

Karren