New Revelation

A little background information. After we began fostering, we began to use the "$ limit" for Christmas presents due to having so many kids in the house to buy for...not to mention other family members. Then of course we had to make sure everyone had the SAME amount of gifts to open. Believe me, the younger they are, the easier it is!

Today as I sat on my bedroom floor wrapping presents, I noticed that some of the kids have way more things than the others. So I began putting things back in the bags and into the hiding place (my closet) since they have birthdays coming up next month. All the while, I was thinking this was the stupidest idea yet! I can't have a dollor amount because even though it is equal the little kids won't understand that...and let's face it, big kids want just as many presents to open as the little kids.

Then it hit me.

THIS IS ALL WRONG!!

I started thinking...what am I teaching my kids about Christmas?
There has always been the big debate between DH and I: Santa Claus or the truth?

But that is NOT what I am talking about.

What is Christmas?

Christmas isn't PRESENTS! Christmas is about GIVING. The every first Christmas God gave us His SON. The very SON who gave His LIFE for us.

Then I began to cry. I have had my kids in church. Until today, I would have said they know the meaning of Christmas. But I can't say that anymore because the realization didn't hit me until today.

Christmas has always been "what have you asked Santa for?" or "Sing Happy Birthday to Jesus!"

Even that isn't what Christmas is about!

I haven't taught my kids to give out of the love for Christ.

Until today, I was "proud of myself" because I said "we" would adopt a family for Christmas. Well, I went out and bought the gifts. I wrapped the presents. I sent Little Monster up to the door to drop them off making sure to tell them "Merry Christmas and God Bless". I am ashamed. I didn't teach anyone of them to gift out of love for Christ. And it hurts my heart. I have failed. And the worst part, I thought I was doing it right. I wasn't even close.

Since the world didn't end today...I have time.

My kids will know the true meaning of Christmas.

And if you are wondering, I won't be taking their presents away...but I will make sure they know why they are getting them. And we will be showing Christ's love throughout the New Year starting today.

For God so loved the world that He gave His ONLY SON, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not parish but have everlasting life.
~John 3:16.