December 2010 Newsletter

Christmas Traditions & Cookie Recipe by Bev Hillyer

Each Christmas we celebrate Immanuel, God with us. God gave, we got. Giving inspired by the greatest Giver giving us the greatest Gift, His son Jesus Christ, defines the season. As we seek to impress this truth of Christmas on the hearts and minds of children, it is an excellent time to teach them the blessedness of giving. They've already got the blessedness of 'getting' down pat. A variety of activities can leave an indelible impression on their young lives. My children, now adults, still vividly remember when we as a family gave to others beyond our circle of family and friends.

Angel Tree is a wonderful project for a family. We've participated in this ministry for years buying gifts for children whose parents are in prison and thereby sharing the love of Christ. One year early on, we took presents to a young mother with small children who was sadly living in a barren apartment with only mattresses on the floor. She was overwhelmed and the children were overjoyed at the bundle of brightly wrapped gifts John and Jennifer personally handed to them.

Caroling is another way of giving away from ourselves especially when your audience is an isolated and often forgotten part of society. As a family we've been to nursing homes and jails to sing Christmas carols. What a wonder to see hardened and blank faces begin to soften and smile. God's love conveyed through the gift of song can transcend their circumstances and minister to their spirit in remarkable ways.

Finally, taking some homemade Christmas goodies to our neighbors can be a meaningful experience. We all have our favorite recipes we love to make year after year. The special memories of baking with my kids far out weigh the messes made. I would wrap plates of cookies with colored cellophane, holiday ribbons and a thoughtful note. Then with as many plates as each of us could carry, we'd go door to door, deliver the 'goods' and wish our neighbors a Merry Christmas. It is one of many ways God can build bridges, establish friendships and prepare hearts to hear the Gospel right where we live.

Here is an easy cookie bar recipe from the 'Colonial Williamsburg Cookbook' I've made for years. Enjoy...