Love or Tinsel?

As the holiday season approaches, things seem to get extremely busy around the farm!  It seems this time of year equipment tends to break more often, cows tend to become lazy on their milk production, and  those cows that are due to calve decide to do so on the coldest, snowiest night possible. 

I arrived on the farm for my three week Christmas break from classes at Purdue on Friday.  During my breaks, my dad always decides to take advantage of me (which I don't blame him) being home by either cleaning out the sheds, hauling cattle, paying bills, etc., all while I milk.  I am usually assisted by my younger sister which always helps the milking go a bit more smoother when there are two milking. There are times I wish the cows knew how to milk themselves, but then I think how proud God must be when His children want to care for his animals.  These bovine creatures can't really prepare their own food and milk themselves, and it is our duty as children of God to care for his animals.  

As we embark the joy and love that Christmas brings, churches will be filled with the voices of choir members singing about the birth of the King, my sisters, mom and I will take our turn in singing at church about the birth of the King, families will get together sharing gifts with one another, eating food, and sharing fun and love. I think we expect too much at Christmas. It's got to be magical, it's got to go right. Feasting, fun, oh don't forget that perfect present! All the anticipation...why don't you just take it easy? Christmas isn't about making sure your gifts are better than anyone else's or making sure your food tastes the best, etc.....why the competition??? However, LOVE is the thing. The rest is simply tinsel.  So, as you attend your family gatherings, church services and experience Christmas share some love.  You may be suprised how God will bless you. 

Merry Christmas!