A wonderful teacher I use to work with would tell her Kindergartners the phrase, "You get what you get, so don't throw a fit" whenever it applied - usually snack time fit perfectly. Her point was to be grateful for what you get from someone else instead of upset about it. I'm reminded of this phrase because it is Christmastime. My family always goes to Jen's grandma's house on Christmas morning. Years ago, someone in the family, who was a little immature, would open her gifts and let the giver know right away whether she liked it and would keep it or return it. I was dumbfounded along with the rest of the family. She needed to have that Kindergarten teacher in her life!!! Gratefulness is a matter of the heart on the part of the receiver. Consider how grateful your family is this Christmas for the gift you have received from God - a Savior! Jesus born in Bethlehem, Mary riding a donkey, Joseph didn't divorce her, no room in the inn, shepherds in the field, angels in the sky, manger for a bed, etc. - wow, what an amazing account. BUT it is just the beginning. Jesus began life on earth in Bethlehem, but he eventually brought things "full circle" with Jerusalem, Golgotha, and the empty tomb! At Christmas, that is what we get - a Savior. Nothing else matters, so don't throw a fit. "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." Matthew 1:21
Family Discussion Points!
Talk about gratefulness.
Spend as much time talking about Easter this Christmas as you can.
Talk about what you want for Christmas like you always do, but also talk about what you already received - a Savior.
