This Christmas Day, I won't be seeing most of my eleven grandchildren. Almost all of them are married, and some have children. So, I decided to write a letter to them, which I am sharing with you, in the hope that you will be able to personalize it with your own memories.

Dear Grandchildren,

I wanted to share with you some thoughts and memories as we celebrate this most meaningful day.

On Christmas Day, we remember family and fellowship, food and fun, laughter and music, and most of all, love, as we recognize God's greatest gift to us — His Son and our Saviour — Jesus Christ.

We mark this day by giving gifts. I well remember the first Christmas of our eldest grandchild. You were surrounded by many presents that your uncles helped you open. While they tried to teach you how to operate your new toys, you seemed more interested in the boxes and wrapping paper!

Over the years, you have all enjoyed Grandma's cooking, especially the shortbreads and apple pies. Remember how she often included others on Christmas Day who didn't have family like you did? I hope you follow that same tradition as you are able.

Music was always a central feature of Christmas. Remember gathering around the piano and singing carols? I remember that one year, following an excellent dinner, Michael and Sarah were assigned to meet with the other children and recommend what game that they would like to play. To our pleasant surprise, you returned with the decision that everyone just wanted to sing more carols.

Over the years, you have all attended the annual Christmas program at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto. I was privileged to attend earlier this month, and it was again thrilling to hear thousands of people singing carols. I hope that you have included lots of music this Christmas, particularly celebrating Jesus, the reason for the season.

Finally, the most important factor is the sharing of love. You have seen it in your parents and grandparents, and I am confident that you, with children of your own, will set the same example for my great-grandchildren. Remember that it is all because of God's gift to us.

Luke 2:11-14 – "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." (NIV)

With lots of love and prayers,

Grandpa W.

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for the greatest gift of all, Your Son, Jesus. As we reflect on memories of the past and gifts of the present, may each of us recognize the most important gift of all. May we show our appreciation by accepting Jesus as our Saviour and sharing Your great love with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Vincent Walter <vwalter@bell.net>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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