A brief sit-down with our little boy and girl to discuss the meaning of Christmas yields a few noteworthy nuggets:
"Christmas is a super, super happy holiday," my son explains, "because Santa brings you presents." I nudge him for more. "Well, you get to celebrate with your family and do a whole bunch of fun stuff." All right, that's better. Finally he adds, "Christmas makes you feel special inside. It's just a miracle." Yes! That's it.
His little sister raises her hand politely and provides the kicker. "Christmas is about Mary and Joseph going to the manger." Now we're getting to the bottom of the story. But as my little sweetie begins to say more, her gaze turns toward the Christmas tree and the colorful wrapped boxes resting beneath it.
She continues, "Then the wise men bring lots of presents to the baby Jesus. Getting presents is great!"
Fair enough. Materialism is undeniably a big part of this special season, a force energizing kids the world over. And that sparkle in their eyes, the quickening of their little hearts, is more than enough reason to celebrate, if you ask me.