DECEMBER 23, 2020    

Forever Santa

At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.”         Matthew 18: 1-5, NIV

Caroline, our 15-year-old daughter, has a rare genetic syndrome called Smith-Magenis Syndrome. She is a very happy young lady. It is a new day of joy every morning that she wakes up – often before 5:30 a.m., much to the chagrin of Richard and me. Her cognitive level will always be comparable to a 6- to 8-year-old. Caroline LOVES Santa Claus. I came to the realization a few years ago that she may always believe in Santa Claus. This is OK with me.

In the spirit of Santa Claus, Caroline LOVES to give people gifts. I am sure that many of you have been on the receiving end of her “gifts.” She will wrap up things from around the house. She will give away anything. We jokingly liken it to the character Aunt Bethany from the movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Aunt Bethany arrives at the home of the Chevy Chase character, Clark Griswold, on Christmas Eve presenting two gifts. One is her live cat that she wrapped up, and the other gift is a wrapped and melted lime Jell-O mold.

The season of Advent provides us with a special opportunity to prepare for the celebration of Christ’s coming at Christmas. May our preparations for Advent, not unlike Caroline’s year-long preparations, bring glory and honor to God. May our focus be on preparing our hearts for Jesus’ second coming. Lord, you choose the weak such as the little children and those with special needs to show the way. Lord, use those individuals in powerful ways to advance your Kingdom.

We thank you, heavenly Father, for Your faithfulness during this season of Advent as we prepare for Your Son’s second coming. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Cheryl Herman 

Click here to see the complete 2020 Advent Devotional booklet.