It's not about the presents, it's about His presence.

Growing up with a father in the toy business, I was particularly midful of the "haves" and "have nots" at Christmas time. Some parents spent lavishly on their children's Christmas, while others paid $5 a week on lay-away toys, and still there were those who could not afford anything. I was keenly aware at a young age how fortunate I was, and that others didn't enjoy the same luxuries. My dad treated everyone who walked through the door with respect regardless of financial means. He would often say you can't help the family you are born into. For some it is a blessing, others not so fortunate, but children don't understand this, particularly at Christmas. Parents and children are disappointed when they can't provide or receive the presents others enjoy. If this is what Christians mean by a season of hope, why would the less fortunate, discouraged want any part of it? Well, Sally reminded us in her sermon on Sunday that the expectation and real hope is in our relationship with God, through his son Jesus Christ, not the presents under the tree. We all would do well to have less gifts, and more room in our heart for Jesus.