This year to celebrate the Christmas holiday I did not buy:
A Christmas tree
Stocking stuffers
Video games
Another tie
Candy canes
A wreath
Christmas cards
My son a sweater
Blinking lights
A light up reindeer
Cookies
Garland
Red bows
Gift wrap
Electronic toys
iPods
Gift tags
Gift bags
GIFTS
That’s right!!! This year I am not buying anything for myself, my house or my family, no gifts. Instead we are celebrating the holiday by being together as a family, sharing a meal and remembering what we are about to celebrate, the birth of Christ.
We used to go all out for Christmas, two decorated trees, wreaths and lights all over the house, stockings, gifts, the whole enchilada. But over the years, as we have been more involved in missions I have been cutting back on the décor and gifts.
This year the four kids, ages 23, 20, 18 and 18 will be told that instead of another useless gift I am giving money to Jose and his family…
Jose and his four siblings live in squalor in a barrio in the Dominican Republic. His mother is dying of AIDS and Jose is the sole provider for the family. He does not go to school; instead he walks the streets trying to earn money shining the shoes of tourists who often abuse him in heinous ways. Jose is a happy go lucky 13 year old who has seen more than most adults and experienced things no human should endure.
His mother needs medical care, the children need food and clothes and they all need to know they are loved.
This year we hope to bring some joy, hope and love of Christ into the life of Jose and his family.
Whose life will you touch this holiday season?
(PS. If my kids disown me and think I am a horrible Mother, I’ll let you know)
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