Niki Anderson ~ Author & Speaker

     While newscasters report the controversy about wishing people “Merry Christmas” or the alternate, “Happy Holidays”, I’m baffled. I’ll accept well-wishes of any sort. If it’s a Monday, I even appreciate, “Happy housecleaning, Niki!”

     Let’s not miss the spirit of the season with petty diversions about greetings. Who isn’t in favor of merriment? Wish me Merry Christmas! And of course, the happiest of days are holy days! God grant us Happy Holidays!

     My goal is to mix up merriment with holiness, and scatter well-wishes toward all. Five questions I’ve asked myself may also help you to keep the days cheery and sacred.

1. Am I remembering those commonly forgotten at Christmas?

The unemployed, the widow, the homebound; I’ll be visiting one dear person in each of these categories.

2. Am I respecting my gift budget?

Leave the credit card at home. Among new items, I’m also giving a couple 2nd hand books, some personal treasures, and selecting less non-essentials and more single gifts of “just-what-you-wanted.”

3. Am I over-extending my energy at the expense of body and peace?

Not a holy way to celebrate. It’s possible, really, to bake, invite, visit, and gift people in January, if you run out of time by December 24th.

4. Have I read the Christmas story yet? Luke 2:1-20

Don’t wait until the Christmas worship service. Ponder the scriptures now and share new insights with others at those holy-day parties. (My own fresh reminder? Angels don’t lie!)

5. What gift have I given to Jesus?

It’s his birthday, not ours. Make sure Jesus gets the biggest present of all by giving to someone in need.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holy Days!

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14