The Real Reason for the Season
My family and I have spent the past few weeks enjoying the sights, sounds and activities of the Christmas season. December is always a fun time in our household, and we greatly enjoy the gatherings, decorations, gift-giving and treats that come along with the holiday.
It’s also a time of reflection where we review both the accomplishments and problems we experienced during the year and talk about how these life lessons can have an effect not only on ourselves, but also the people around us.
The Christmas season is a celebration of the blessing we received from God in his only son Jesus Christ. This Christmas, let’s remember to be thankful for the many blessings we have in our lives. It is important to never take any of our blessings for granted and we must always remember the true value of loving friends and family.
While there is no gift we can give that will equal God’s child, our everyday actions can represent true Christian values. When complaining that work is hard and stressful, think about the many people who no longer have an office to complain about. Remember that success comes in counting blessings, not possessions. Give priceless gifts, like love and time, rather than gifts you buy and tie with a bow.
Think of those putting their lives on the line each day and those that made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. Our troops teach the value of democracy and freedom every day. They build schools, provide food and aid to those without enough to support their families; meanwhile, their own families await their safe return.
This Christmas, send them a letter to thank them. If you see a family member who will be missing a loved one this Christmas, say “thank you.” Military families also make sacrifices.
Every day, it seems there is new joy and another reason to be thankful. Jan and I always enjoy teaching our children Stella and Banks about the true meaning of Christmas. It is important for them to understand that while presents are a fun part of Christmas, the true gift came from God many thousands of years ago.
As Christmas gets closer, we should take this opportunity to teach others about the life and work of Jesus Christ. Don’t stop with his birth, it is only part of the story. He did so many great things that we can learn from and use in our lives each day. We must be the example we want to see in our kids, our community, and our state.
As always, I am grateful to you, the 25th Senatorial district, for electing me to represent you. I look forward to serving you and the rest of Georgia as we move forward. Please feel free to contact me at 404.656.0082 or burt.jones@senate.ga.gov with your comments or concerns.