The year was 1949 and I was looking forward to Christmas. Late on Christmas Eve, I had the chance to understand life from a grown-up perspective. All the children were in bed and from my bedroom I watched my Mother make several trips into the living room. Just before midnight she realized that I was still awake. Pausing in the bedroom doorway, she motioned for me to come with her. I walked into the warm glow of the Christmas tree lights. She talked to me as a confidante, and I knew that I would never be the same. In the quiet, she included me in “grown-up” family secrets and explained their financial situation. For the past several weeks, the church members had cut their tithes and offerings drastically, and no one gave the week of Christmas, which meant the Pastor didn’t receive a check. Fortunately, Mother had bought Christmas presents for the three younger children a few months back and I received the two books I had request—but I would have to wait for the watch and new clothes. The next morning I sat on the couch rejoining with my sister and brothers as they opened their gifts. I learned the joy of Christmas—it is a time for giving.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
Christmas Greetings from Germaine and Everette and the Word Ministries Staff