First and foremost, we should always remember the true meaning of Christmas. It celebrates the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, God incarnate, who came to earth to take on all our sins. He gave us the ultimate gift—His life. With immense forgiveness, He offers us salvation and the promise of eternal life with Him.
Decorating the tree, hanging stockings, sprucing up the house inside and out, baking cookies, and making a birthday cake for Jesus—these are all the ways we try to create memorable Christmas moments for our kids. This is truly the best time of year and some of the most cherished moments in our lives.
Where does this come from? It comes from our parents. Growing up, we didn’t have much money. My dad was a union painter who got laid off every year around Thanksgiving until after New Year’s. Denise had a similar childhood, with her dad being injured and out of work more often than not. Despite the challenges, our parents always made Christmas special, from decorating the house to ensuring there were gifts under the tree on Christmas morning. They taught us the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Their top priority was our happiness, and they absolutely succeeded!
As parents, my wife and I always made sure Christmas was an unforgettable day for our kids, and now we strive to pass that joy on to our grandkids. It’s a cherished tradition we’re proud to hand down to the next generation.
Thinking back on the memories of past Christmases fills my heart and brings a smile to my face. That’s why, when Thanksgiving comes around, I feel a special warmth inside and find myself smiling as I go about my day. It’s just another reminder of how much Christmas means to me, and I know it holds the same magic for Denise.