12-24-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
December 24, 2023
Guest Writer: Rev. Paula Gembala 
I grew up in a large family, there were 6 of us kids, and our parents.  When we were younger, our parents used to give  each of us a set amount of money for us to go out and buy Christmas gifts for each other.  It wasn’t a lot of money so it really took some thinking and searching for just the right gifts to buy.  Each of us went on a different day and would return home to get the wrapping paper, ribbon and bows to wrap and decorate our gifts.  By the time each of us had done our shopping and put the wrapped gifts under the tree, we were all amazed at how many gifts there were!  We knew we couldn’t pick up the gifts so we would just sit and try to guess what might be in each box!  I don’t think any of us ever guessed right!  It was still fun dreaming and wondering if we were right!  

One of my favorite Christmas memories was back in the late 70’s when all of us kids came home with our kids and spent Christmas all together with our parents, which didn’t happen very often.  All the women would be in the kitchen day after day making Christmas goodies.  We had so much fun working together!  I don’t know how we all fit in that kitchen together with all our babies, but we did!  The men were in charge of the toddlers and older kids, keeping them occupied and having fun!

On Christmas Eve we all gathered around in the living room, the kids were so excited as they knew they were going to open their gifts.  We sang Christmas carols and told stories until the children couldn’t wait another second.  They each took turns opening their gifts.  They were so excited and filled to the brim with joy.  This particular year, for some reason I really noticed my Dad.  He had the biggest smile on his face as he watched each of his grandchildren opening the gifts.  This went on and on as we all opened our gifts but my Dad waited to the last.  I don’t remember the exact gift he opened but I do recall his surprise and that smile grew even bigger!  I treasure this memory so much as I believe it was the last Christmas that all of us were together.

This memory reminds me to cherish each moment as we never know when it will be the last.  What I wouldn’t give to go back and have one more Christmas like this one, to see my parents again and my brother.  Make the most of every second you have together with your loved ones, make wonderful memories together as one day that will be all you have, the memories. 

Wonderful Counselor, Thank you for these wonderful and cherished memories we have.  Help us to always remember to make the most of every second we have together, to make memories that will live on even when we are no longer here. Amen.