I thought this little story might put Christmas back into perspective for us.

 A young woman was out shopping with her two children a few days before Christmas. After many hours of looking at row after row of toys and everything else imaginable, and after hours of hearing both her children asking for everything they saw on those many shelves, she finally made it to the elevator with her two kids.

She felt what so many of us feel during the holiday season time of the year. It is the overwhelming pressure to go to every party, every housewarming, taste all the holiday food and treats, discover that perfect gift for every single person on the shopping list, make sure to not forget anyone on our card list, and the pressure of making sure we respond to everyone who sent a Christmas card.

Finally the elevator doors opened and there was already a crowd in the car. She pushed her way into the car and dragged her two kids with her, along with their bags of stuff. When the doors closed she couldn’t take it anymore and stated, “Whoever started this whole Christmas thing should be found, strung up and shot!”

From the back of the car everyone heard a quiet calm voice respond, “Don’t worry. We already crucified him.”

For the rest of the trip down, the elevator was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop.

Don’t forget this year to keep the One who started this whole Christmas thing in your every thought, deed, purchase, and word. If we all do it, just think how different this whole world will be.

“For unto us a CHILD was born. Unto us a SON was GIVEN!”

Blessings,

Pastor