Reason for the season

Once again that magical time of year has come — a reminder of Christ’s birth, which happened over 2,000 years ago. And amid all the gift buying, parties and holiday decorations, the focus should be that Jesus is the reason for the season.

Christmas is the time Christians celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus. It is a time of rejoicing and good news. Without a doubt, we believe that we have been given the greatest gift of all: eternal life. It is the greatest gift ever given to mankind or ever will be.

The most awesome thing about Jesus’ birth is that, according to the Bible, God planned for our savior to be born at this perfect time.

The magic of Christmas permeates the very air we breathe during this season. It’s a deep-down feeling that I have within my soul. I’m sure others feel the same way. It’s something very special and rather difficult to put into words.

Christmas also can be an emotional time, especially for those who have lost loved ones. We miss their presence, and that can be magnified this Christmas Eve as we remember past holidays shared with them. But take comfort in knowing that our loved ones belonged to God first, so we haven’t lost them. They have been returned to him.

This Christmas as we gather around the table giving thanks to God for our many blessings, please remember our brave men and women who proudly serve our country in our armed forces. Thank them and pray for them and their families. Because it is through their dedicated service to our country that we can live in freedom and peace.

My Christmas wish for all is that we carry the lovely magic of Christmas deep within our souls — not only during the Christmas season but throughout the entire year.

Maudie Sunday, Mexia

Forgive others

This time of year, it seems that most people identify with the birth of Jesus. His birth was just the beginning as he spent the next 33 years fulfilling his Father’s will.

My health became so that I had to depend on others. I have been blessed as I was able to discern those who were like his son and those who were not.

Unforgivingness is one of man’s destructive choices. Christians believe that Jesus forgave us while hanging on the cross in agony. So many of us have a hard time forgiving while seated in our overstuffed recliner.

This Christmas Eve, please remember that forgiveness is a choice. Won’t you choose to give the gift of forgiveness?

Daniel Younger, Itasca

Holiday lights tour

Thanks to the Waco Transit System for again offering the Waco Holiday of Lights Tour. And thanks to the many sponsors. I received hot chocolate during the one-hour bus tour.

I am grateful to special friends who bought my ticket and took me on the tour!

Mary Compton, Waco