The Oasis - December 13, 2023

            Recently, I noticed something about the popular story of Santa Claus that never occurred to me before. I’ve always been sympathetic to the story. A bunch of elves at the North Pole make toys. On December 24 a plump but jolly man packs his reindeer driven sleigh with gifts for children all over the world. He climbs down chimneys, fills stockings, and leaves presents. 

            The thing I never thought about is that his gifts are conditional. Will you receive a gift this year? It depends on whether you are deemed naughty or nice. At this moment, he’s making a list and checking it twice. “He’s going to find out who’s naughty and nice.”

            I’ve decided I like the biblical Christmas story better. It’s a story about God’s unconditional love. In the Bible, the gift is Jesus and it is unconditional. The gift is for everyone, no matter where they are, no matter their situation, and regardless of whether they have been naughty or nice. The gift is light for whatever darkness any of us face. That’s a story I can really get behind.

            I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish you hope, peace, joy, and love as we near Christmas. And know that God loves you just the way you are.

Blessings,
Eric