Several years ago, while enjoying my warm house on a cold day, in the light of the Christmas tree, I sat at my piano.
Oblivious to everything around me, I played and began to worship the Creator. At some point in the song, the lyrics repeated again and again: “I love your presence. I love your presence. I love your presence in this place…”
Suddenly my five year old interrupted gently with his hand on my arm.
“Mama, Mama!”
I stopped playing and looked in his big blue eyes.
“What is it, Jordan?”
“Um…..” He replied with excitement.
“I LIKE PRESENTS!”
He is twenty years old this Christmas, and still likes presents, as do his younger brothers and sister.
However, as we open gifts, each year we seem more aware of what really matters:
Not so much PRESENTS as PRESENCE.
The most precious gift is simply being present in the moment.
Right now, where you are as you read this?
Are you at home? Are you at a coffee shop somewhere? Are you reading a newspaper or a post on your cell phone?
Wherever you are – be fully there!
As you prepare for Christmas with all its hustle and bustle, I hope you’ll take time to slow down and enjoy THIS moment, the one in your hand right now. The future will always be just out of reach.
It’s okay to like presents. Love will always find a way to give.
At the same time, I think about the message the angel gave about the Christmas Child, “His name will be Emmanuel meaning God WITH us.”
The best present of all is Divine Presence in the present moment.
Ha! Have another latte or egg nog. It will sink in as you think about it.
Until next time – Let’s look for Peace on Earth and Goodwill towards men. It’s here -in the presence.
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Gina Parris is an inspirational and motivational speaker who helps you reach your God-given potential, joyfully. She would love to speak to your group or church or organization. Find out more at www.GinaTheSpeaker.com
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What a lovely Christmas message! Thank you and wishing you and your family a Christmas full of blessings, peace and much downtime to enjoy!!!
Thanks Dawn! I love you.