Love - Christmas Style

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style© By Sharon Jaynes

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If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family – I’m just another decorator.
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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.
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If I work at the 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.
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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.
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Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
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Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.
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Love is kind, though harried and tired.
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Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.
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Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of your way.
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Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.
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Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.
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Love never fails.  Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust.  But giving the gift of love will endure.
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Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, that starry night in Bethlehem.  Like the Shepherds, I am still amazed at Your great love.  May I not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas, but celebrate Jesus’ birthday with joy! In Jesus’ Name, Amen
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Now It’s Your Turn

What are some ways that you can make sure to love your family well this holiday season?
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Are there any activities that you need to eliminate from your busy schedule to alleviate over-commitment?  Is your family being neglected because of a hectic Christmas schedule?
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If that question wasn’t painful enough, here’s another one.  Is Jesus being neglected as you prepare for His birthday?  Ouch!  I just stomped on my own toe!
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MERRY CHRISTMAS - Mark & Terri LaBeau