As I walked down the mall and entered a store I heard “Mary, Did You Know?” and immediately I joined in the song. It’s one of my favorites and it gives me a thrill. What is it about this time of the year that makes it so different from any other? Why are our spirits lifted to the strains of “Silent Night” and “Joy to the World?” Why do friends and family turn hearts toward home?

Could it just be the Christ Child brings light and hope to a darkened world? Could it be “Christmas” softens even the hardest heart? Why? It’s because Jesus is our hope…the hope of eternal life… “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live” (John 11:25, KJV).

Christmas happens in the heart. Even in the bleakest circumstance, Christmas occurs. It puts a sparkle in eyes and brings joy to others. It beckons loved ones to get together again.

The most wonderful time of the year reminds even the worst “Scrooge” that a Savior is born. The Prince of Peace came to save mankind from  ravages of sin. No one can take Christmas away from the human heart because “Christmas” reminds the world of God’s great love. John 3:16 rings again in our hearts and we rejoice as we think of the Babe of Bethlehem born in a manger in a lowly stable.

My grandchildren are all grown now but one year when four of them were visiting us I asked them to express the true meaning of Christmas and I share their memories with permission:

Jody, age 16, wrote: “He is the greatest gift I could ever have. Jesus Christ is a gift I never get tired of receiving. Please don’t limit this celebration to one day of the year. Let every day be Christmas. Let’s wish Him a ‘Happy Birthday,’ today, tomorrow and all the days to come.”

Cody, 15, “Special people in my life have shown me the importance of family and love. Christmas is so special because of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I am filled with joy because He is so alive in me.”

Joe Mark, 15, “Most people in the world today think Christmas is a time for gifts. They don’t take the time to look at what Christmas really is because they are so wrapped up in the material part of Christmas. I strongly believe that Christmas should be used to celebrate Jesus’ birth. This is what Christmas means to me.”

Traci, 7, “I think Christmas is the warm feeling inside of you. Most people think it’s the goodies that make Christmas Christmas, but it’s not. Christmas is Jesus’ birthday of course. So keep Christmas in your heart.”

May I add my thoughts? Let Christmas happen. Allow the joy of the season to touch your heart. We will thank God for sending the Christ Child. We will once again watch “It’s a Wonderful Life.” We will go caroling and spread our cheer. We will pop popcorn and drink hot apple juice by the fireplace.

Keep Christmas in your heart all year long. It’s all about Jesus and His love…a love that lasts forever.

                        Christmas is a time of cheer.

                        A time for loved ones to be near.

                        The Christmas tree, the stockings hung,

                        It’s time for carols to be sung.

                        For at this time we celebrate.

                        All year long we can hardly wait

                        To observe the birth so long ago

                        That saves mankind from all its woe.

                        Let every heart be glad and sing

                        Our praises to the new born King!