Of Gifts and More Important Things

I've been busy buying wrapping gifts for Christmas. I stopped by the library and this book found its way home with me. Hugs for the Holidays by John William Smith. Kind of a Chicken Soup for the Soul type of book. I realize I forgot the most important gifts. The gifts are listed in the index. 

1. The gift of kindness...the times I have awkwardly walked passed the Red Kettle and the bell ringer in front of the store. Thinking about it until days later when the opportunity presents its self again. 
2. The gift of faith...rushing around growing tired and cold instead being refreshed by the miracle of belief. 
3. The gift of forgiving. It is what Christmas is all about healing wounds and resolving conflicts. 
4. The gift of assurance...remembering answered prayers in the times of doubt. 
5. The gift of hope...to see thought the eyes of someone in difficult circumstances and shine through as an example to us all. Tiny Tim saying, "He told me, coming home, that he hope the people saw him in the church, because he was crippled and it might be pleasant to them to remember, upon Christmas Day, who made beggars walk and blind men see." Tiny Tim's good cheer radiating a glow to melt Scrooges heart. 
6. The gift of timeless treasures...times gone by, the traditions and touchstones flooding the minds with precious memories. 
7. The gift of Jesus...whether standing at the manger or the foot of the Throne the gift to all who would receive it. Became a man a carpenters son to be like us and share in our hardship and understand through our eyes. So we could be Sons and Daughters of our Heavenly Father and share in his joy. 

Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy which will be to all people. Luke 2:10b

Merry Christmas Everyone!