A Gift of Time Well Spent

By Pat

Well, another Christmas season has arrived. It seems like each one comes faster than the one before, and I find myself, as usual, worrying about what to buy, when to decorate, and how much to bake. I will fret over what to get grandchildren who need nothing. I will make myself crazy.

Somehow, I don't think this is what Jesus wants as we prepare to celebrate his birth. I remember the little drummer boy, and how the gift of music he gave to baby Jesus made Him smile. I remember that, in Matthew 19: 16-23, Jesus tells the story of the rich young man, and how distressed he was when Jesus told him to give all his riches to the poor. I remember that Jesus defines riches and gifts much differently than the world does...and I like it.

There is no gift I can give that is more comforting and warm than the gift of time well spent with a loved one, nor is there any I can receive that is so wonderful. I cannot wrap up hugs, kisses, and words of encouragement, but I can give them out more freely. Perhaps it's not so much the movie I might buy someone as the time I spend in sitting and watching it together with them. Maybe an afternoon of laughter and coffee with a friend would be warmer than any sweater I might buy them, for the sweater will only warm on the outside, and once removed, the chill returns. But an afternoon of warm laughter and sharing love and prayers will create memories that will last forever, and bring warmth whenever brought to mind.

I believe that maybe, just maybe, this will be the Christmas I will worry more about giving the intangibles, the things that will never be outgrown or become unstylish. Perhaps this will be the Christmas that I truly focus on the REAL meaning of Christmas, and give it to the world.

Pat is a good friend who is passionate about her faith and her family. She works from home supporting a family business, and loves to read, write and garden when she can, and spends every spare moment with her grandkids.