We all want better for our kids. I hear parents say it all the time. I think to most parents better means, better education, friends, giving things that they didn't get to have as a child. I am no better than other parents and want the same things for my brood. I think I just may define it differently.
First and foremost, I want my children to have a relationship with God. A deep, meaningful relationship.
As for the Christmas Experience....
I never remember going to church on Christmas, or giving back to the less fortunate with acts of charity. I always however remember LOTS of presents. I probably couldn't tell you what one of those presents were now.
So I do want my children to have a "better" childhood and Christmas than I did but not in the conventional sense. I want them to celebrate the birth of our Savior and give him gifts of love, praise, and glory through their acts of charity. I want them to carry on traditions that are important ( I don't mean the elf on the shelf).
Nothing made me more proud than my children's willingness to help out with giving to the homeless and I hope that it only grows from there. Even as little kids we would host a birthday party for Jesus and the kids would donate socks and mittens that we would deliver. I hope my children will remember their three gifts under the tree, not for what was in them but because Jesus received three.
I want my children to have a love of all creatures. It took me a long time to feel this love but really is the greatest gift. Some would say I take this to extremes with a dog, 4 chickens, 3 cats ( one that only has one eye and a crooked tail that we rescued. It is no surprise that this year there will be 2 bunnies under the tree. We really need a farm!
Ultimately, my goal as a parent is to make sure my children are lead to the gates of heaven after their journey here on earth. What I want better for my kids is to have a better education, friends and things I didn't know I had which is the love of God. I want them to do all things for the glory of God and their lives will be just as they are supposed to be.
As for my Christmas wish and if you are looking for anything to add to your prayer list... There is an empty spot at our table and I have full trust in God that he will fill it in his way and in his time.
And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God. Pilippians 1:9-11
Merry Christmas to all! God Bless!
I am very proud of you and Joey for raising a wonderful Family. If there ever was an ideal Parent Role Model it would be you and Joey for instilling great family values in my Nieces and Nephews. You have taught them to have faith in the Lord, to love others as they would love you, to care for others that are less fortunate, and to be the best in everything they do. I am very fortunate to be a part of your loving family and I love you all. May the Lords love be with you all today and every day. Love Uncle Darrel.
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