It's not what's under the tree

Sometimes this time of year can be hard to swallow. No not because of the “Coulee Crud” that seems to hang in the air and embed in everyone’s throat. It is because we see more and more commercialism of the holidays and less and less about the beginnings and the spirit behind it all.

For example, last year at this time a huge debate was going on. You know, the debate about the classic Christmas tune “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and how some thought it was sexist and needed to be grounded from all holiday playlists. Luckily that debate has ended, but the push of financial measurement during the holidays has not.

This year the hottest toys for Christmas are (according to Amazon) a doll named Candy Locks, Crayola Chemistry Set, A baby shark puppet, Go Glam Nail Art set, A Mystery Egg, Barbie Dream Plane, Journey Girls Dolls and Cozmo. The cheapest one will run you $9.99, but the high end of these is $179.99, with the average price being right around $45. First off, congrats to Barbie for hanging in there all these years and still being desired, but the cost of toys now is outrageous.

I remember my mother once telling me that in their stockings (Santa) used to leave oranges, nuts and maybe a piece of chocolate. (See, I did listen, Mom; Merry Christmas). I can remember as a child getting a book, CD or maybe a Coca Cola, but today the expectations placed on Santa to deliver the goods are extreme. I overheard one teenage girl say, “If I don’t get the new iPhone this year, I am moving out.” What? How did we get here?

Yes, there are those out there who do not go to the extreme when it comes to gift giving, and there are those who want to spoil their babies during this season, and I do not judge anyone for that. I am one, myself, that loves to spoil the ones I love, but are we setting the table so full of expectations that there is only one direction to go, and that is down.

So, let us remember the reason we are even having the holiday. It was the birth of a Savior. It really is a birthday party for the one born in a manger so long ago. And the gifts came from the wise men to honor a foretold coming of the King. That is why we give gifts. To honor those who give so much to us daily. Not because they deserve it, but because we love each other unconditionally. Just like that man did so long ago when he took our sins with him on the cross. Unconditionally.

So embrace the true meaning of the season. Love each other. That is not measured by a video game under the tree or an expensive necklace or a robotic dinosaur. It is measured in how we treat each other. What we say to each other. How we live in a community together. How we love each other even when it is hard.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and that the New Year is the best ever for you. Let’s take some time to remember why we are celebrating, as well. I’m Jess saying.