Less than two weeks until Christmas, one of my favorite holidays. While we have no snow here in Mazatlan, the Christmas spirit is very much alive. At church last Sunday a brightly lit tree and other festive decorations adorned the sanctuary. People are up on the roofs of their houses inflating Santas and reindeer. Of course none of the lit up homes here hold a candle to Clark Griswold.

The malls and department stores have elaborate displays of Santa’s village. Children line up in anticipation of spending those few treasured moments on Santa’s lap, whispering their hopes and dreams in his ear. A flash from a photographer’s camera captures this moment in time, and a candy cane is offered by a smiling Mrs. Claus.

But the true spirit of Christmas has little to do with lights or decorations or visits with Santa. Christmas is all about love—-God’s love for us and our love for others. We celebrate out of gratitude for what God has done for us. We honor the birth of Jesus Christ by worship and we also embrace the spirit of giving to the less fortunate we encounter in our lives.

I have a small decorated tree in my bedroom, very different from the large elaborate ones I had when I lived in Canada.

I am spending Christmas with a friend in Tototlan. We will indulge in a traditional turkey dinner but will spend our time relaxing, visiting and watching movies together. And in all likelihood we will also attend a church service.  

Whatever your plans may be, I wish one and all a very Merry Christmas!