Now it's time to hang the ornaments on the tree.
In reflecting on those ornaments, I realized why I enjoy decorating the tree. It's because each ornament has a memory attached to it.
In most cases, I can recall where and when my wife and I bought a particular ornament, or when we received it as a gift. The ornaments that we bought for our children to enjoy bring a smile to my face, as do the ornaments that were made for us by our children.
I also am particular about where each ornament is hung, much to the irritation of my wife and kids. Yes, I have been known to adjust ornaments that others have placed on the tree. My disclaimer is that I just want the ornaments to be seen at their best, where they best fit in.
Each ornament has its own precious nature, which is completely unattached to its monetary value, its outward appearance, or whether or not it does anything special.
In that regard, you and I are like precious ornaments in the eyes of God.
He remembers how you were brought into being, knit together in the warmth and safety of your mother's womb.
He places you with care in just the right spot, the place where you fill what would otherwise be an empty space, the place where you can be at your best.
The value He places on you is not based on your income, your abilities, or your looks.
You are precious to God because He chooses to deem you precious, not because you have impressed Him.
We call that grace. We call that perfect love. He delights in you simply because that is His nature.
Keep that in mind in this holy season of Christmas, that God so loved you that He gave His one and only Son. As the angel told the shepherds, "Unto you is born in the city of David a Savior, Christ the Lord."
A blessed Christmas to y'all in the name of Jesus.
