At Old Fort Church we have started a tradition every Christmas of adopting Christmas families in partnership with the Salvation Army of Tiffin. This year my family adopted a family of six, including four children. We packed up all of our kids and headed off to Wal-Mart. Each of our children helped us shop for them and everybody got into it together. After awhile we had a cart full of cool things. Amazingly nothing we picked out was for us. Not one time did my kids ask for something or wonder why we weren't buying anything for ourselves. God taught our whole family something in that moment, that it is better to give than receive. Sounds cliche but it is true. We experienced it. We were more fulfilled providing a great Christmas for someone else than we would if we were buying for ourselves.
Later that day we gathered in our basement at home watched Polar Express on tv and wrapped those gifts together. Each of our children helped wrap a package and we put them all in a box to take to church. My daughter Tawna said later over a cup of Hot Cocoa that it was the best day ever. I believe it is one thing to try and teach your children through words it is also another to show them by actions and experience. This day will leave a lasting impression on them as I know it has already for me.
I can't think of a better way to bring our family closer and to get a little closer to what Christmas is all about. We serve a God who takes greater joy in giving than He does receiving. We have to look no further than an old beaten down smelling stable to realize that. A God who took on the humblest of circumstances in order to give us everything we have in life. That 's what Christmas is about. If you feel a little lost this year try living in a moment of generosity. It will fill your heart and lift your spirits in the name of God. From my family to yours... may you have a merry Christmas and truly discover its meaning in your life. Blessings, your Dreaming Pastor
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