First Corinthians 13 — Christmas Version

I usually post to the blog on Thursday of each week. This week will be an exception. Christmas Eve on Thursday, Christmas Day on Friday, and all of our children and grandchildren are making their way here — some arriving in the next few hours! I can’t wait!!!!

As we enter this week of Christmas, I thought I would share this special reminder with you. (I know it speaks to me!)

 
If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows,
strands of twinkling lights, and shiny balls,
but do not show love to my family,
I’m just another decorator.
 
If I slave away in the kitchen,
baking dozens of Christmas cookies,
preparing gourmet meals,
and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime,
but do not show love to my family,
I’m just another cook.
 
If I work at a soup kitchen,
carol in the nursing home,
and give all that I have to charity,
but do not show love to my family,
it profits me nothing.
 
If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels
and crocheted snowflakes,
attend a myriad of holiday parties,
and sing in the choir’s cantata,
but do not focus on Christ,
I have missed the point.
 
Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse.
 
Love is kind, though harried and tired.
 
Love does not envy another’s home
that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
 
Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way,
but is thankful they are there to be in the way.
 
Love does not give only to those who are able to give in return,
but rejoices in giving to those who cannot.
 
Love bears all things,
believes all things,
hopes all things, and
endures all things.
Love never fails.
 
Video games will break,
pearl necklaces will be lost,
golf clubs will rust;
 
but giving the gift of love will endure.
Author Unknown

Merry Christmas to you and your family from the Haddix Family!