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     “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness form this time forth and forevermore.  The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this” (Isaiah 9:6-7).  
     The above passage of scripture is special to me.  It is special because it is nostalgic.  A wave of childhood memories have come flooding in.  How many people attended sunrise service on Christmas?   Every Christmas morning at 6am, we performed the same exact Christmas play for at least five years in a row. While we were acting out each scene, someone narrated Isaiah 9:6-7 and Luke 2:4-21.  My grandparent’s faces were filled with pride as we reenacted the birth of Jesus.  After church, we went home, opened presents, feasted and fellowshipped.      
     I don’t know if people still get up at 6am in order to have sunrise service; however, it is that time of year again.  It’s a time for joy, laughter, gift exchanges, fun and family.  Christmas is a time for togetherness.  While Christmas is a time of joy for some, it is a time of sorrow for others.  Some people cannot afford to buy gifts for their loved ones.  Many will be consumed with the loss of loved ones or loved ones who are not able to come home for various reasons.     
     In addition to decorating the tree, stringing up the lights, having parties and buying gifts, let’s not forget the true meaning of Christmas.  The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of this unselfish and indescribable act of love as described in John 3:16-17.  Our celebration of Christmas should be a reflection of the love and selflessness taught by the Savior.  God gave us the perfect gift.   Don’t forget to unwrap and share the gift of Jesus Christ with others.  Why not invite Jesus into your heart this Christmas?  By doing so, it will be a very Merry Christmas.