Into The Woods: Christmas Morning

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Christmas Morning

What better way to celebrate Christmas then on a Sunday. There was some debate as to when we were going to open up our presents around here. I wanted the kids to wait until after church. Brent and the kids were going to have none of that. Then I came up with a compromise. I suggested the kids get to open up their stocking gifts and the presents they bought for each other before Sacrament Meeting. Then we go to church come home and open the remaining three gifts. I ended this proposal with something like this,"Why do we celebrate Christmas? Is it to open up presents or celebrate the birth of the Savior?" After that, most everyone was in agreement. I think Brent still wanted to open them all up in the morning. I think it was a good compromise.

I thought Sacrament meeting was beautiful. There were a lot of speakers and musical numbers so it went over. I had the privilage of participating in the choir and a special double quartet. I don't think there was any better way to celebrate the birth of the Savior then through song. One of the songs we sang was Oh Holy Night. On the radio we hear just the first verse, but there are several verses and they have a very powerful message:

The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger;

In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,

Truly He taught us to love one another,

His law is love and His gospel is peace.

This year I wasn't expecting any gifts, again. As I was handing out the gifts, wrapping paper coordinating to each child, I realized that Jaren had an extra present. Brent looked at it and told me it was mine. When everyone else was done opening theirs, I opened mine. I couldn't help but cry when I opened up a small statue of the Christus. Brent knows me all to well. I think it was probably the most thoughtful gift he has ever given to me. I couldn't even speak emotions had taken such a strong hold on me. Christ truly is my friend, and despite my weaknesses He loves me. He is the one true source of Love and Peace. I am so grateful for Him.