Yes, it's that time of year!

Christmas music is playing in the mall; colourful lights are displayed around our neighbourhood; eggnog is back in the milk cooler at Safeway!

What do YOU do to prepare for the holidays?

Our daughter was home last week for some appointments, so we took that opportunity to set up our tree and decorate the house.  I've listened to a few of my Christmas CD's as I work in the kitchen or sweep the floors.  And surprisingly, I have 4 gifts under the tree, wrapped and ready to go!  I'm feeling pretty good about my Christmas preparations.

Some folks like to begin an Advent devotional and I have one given to me as a gift last year.  I will start to read it daily beginning on December 1, the first Sunday in Advent.  Others are reading the book of Luke (which has 24 chapters) and will read one chapter a day right up to Christmas Eve.  This will give not only the account of Jesus' birth but also His life, teachings and the reason He came to earth - to die on a cross to pay for the sins of the whole world!  

But the story of Jesus Christ doesn't end with His birth; and it also doesn't end with His death.  He gave His life on a Friday but rose again on Sunday!

So before you get too involved in shopping, baking, and running to all the festive parties and events and concerts... take a moment.  Consider the real reason we celebrate Christmas and learn more about the Christ who came for you.