Week 304

Positive post Sunday, December 25, 2022- Week 304. 

Merry CHRISTmas to all my Facebook family and friends.  Christmas is a magical time filled with family traditions, celebration and cheer each year.  We have a family tradition of going to Mass on Christmas Eve to give thanks to the Lord for sending us his only Son, our savior Jesus.  

We also have a tradition of giving to others, especially during the holidays.  This year we contributed to many toy and gift drives led by SoCalGas employees at many districts throughout southern California.  The toys are provided to local parents who have fallen on hard times to give to their children who would otherwise not receive gifts.  We also continued our tradition of providing food for food baskets our church prepares for families in need.

We go to Mass early, on Christmas Eve, to ground ourselves in the “Reason for the Season”, ahead of all the chaos.  You know, all the hustle and bustle when the kids get up early to see what Santa brought, or when the real chaos starts during our gift exchange.  I hope you join me in taking a few moments amongst all the joy and quality family time to open your heart and give praise to God for sending his only Son, ultimately opening the gates of Heaven so we may someday be with him.

Christmas can also be a difficult time for those of us who have lost loved ones, especially during this year.  It’s my belief that, although we grieve our loss, those that have gone before us and who have accepted Jesus in their lives do not perish but rather enjoy eternal life.  Perhaps the attached poem titled, “My first Christmas in Heaven”, will give us comfort and turn our tears of sorrow into tears of joy until we meet again.

What do you see as the true meaning of Christmas and how do you celebrate on Christmas?

What tradition do you have that strengthen your faith and brings you and your family closer to God?