Day 14: So This is Christmas

Before last year, my children had zero interest in Santa and other Christmas “commercialism” (for lack of a better term). In fact, they had never actually received gifts from him – or us, for that matter. They knew that it was a festive holiday, they knew about the Christmas story, and they knew that they may receive gifts from family and friends, and that was enough.

Then last year, the whole year, they wanted bikes, and suddenly Zac was five-and-a-half, and intrigued by the mystery of Santa and his reindeer. We had to post letters, and on Christmas Eve set out cookies and milk for his visit. And when he left footprints in the house, Zac was quick to mention that he was a little messy. By all indications, Santa was a living part of our lives.

This year it was even more so with Sam on the bandwagon as well. They wrote their letters, careful to include that they would not be at home, and Santa should please bring their gifts to our holiday location in England. We even visited a local Santa representative – because, obviously, the real Santa doesn’t come out until Christmas Eve (the logic of a very smart six-year-old); set out additional carrot treats for the reindeer, and tracked Santa’s movements on the internet before bed.

There’s no denying: Christmas morning with young kids who are engrossed in the Wonder, is something special. Even without the snow (that we knew probably wasn’t coming), waking to a silvery blanket of frost on the windows and the ground was pretty magical. But I was also very aware of the fact that we can so easily become caught up in it all: focusing on expensive gifts, extravagant decorations, and making a savior out of Santa - and miss the real sentiment and meaning of Christmas.

Fortunately, Santa seems to be on the same page. He did not bring everything the kids wanted, and so he left a note explaining the real reasons why. He also reminded them to be thankful for all they have, consider those who were not as fortunate as them, enjoy their time with family and friends, and always remember the greatest Christmas gift of all: Jesus.

So as we spend this special day with our loved ones in England, and think fondly of those spread out all over the world, we wish you a blessed Christmas. We pray that everyone would know the deep love of Jesus Christ, and the peace and joy that He brings.