Christmas has become for us a time to exchange gifts with family and loved ones. It’s a beautiful tradition that keeps us close as family and friends. It warms our hearts that someone is thinking about us. And it truly brings joy to many. This Christmas let us remember the gifts we have received and share them always. Merry Christmas! Jesus gave us the gift of Himself. Let us give the gift of our presence to those who seek our attention or need our help. Pay a visit to family and friends and those casual acquaintances. Merry Christmas! Jesus gave us the gift of humility. He was born in a manger of straw in a stable. Let us give those simple gifts to one another in greetings of peace, well wishes for health, and a smile of friendship, to everyone we meet. Merry Christmas! Jesus gives us His attention by answering our prayers. Let us give Him our attention in our personal prayers. Merry Christmas! Jesus gave us His gift of Himself: His time, His presence, and His attention. Let us give of ourselves by giving our time and talent to all who need and seek it. Merry Christmas! Jesus gave us His gift of authentic love as He sacrificed Himself on the Cross. Let us offer that same forgiveness to others – the family member, the friend and the stranger.

Merry Christmas!