What Do You Want for Christmas Jesus?

OKay, I know there is something you’d love to have, Jesus, and I’m not sure what it is from me you’d like…a new car, new shoes, foot massage, back rub, gift card to Macys, peace in the world, love for all mankind…what is the one thing you want from me this year, Jesus?  I promise I will get it for you because all I want this year is for you to be happy!

I’m baking cookies next week, so maybe a freshly-made Norwegian cookie with lots of creamy buttery frosting to top it off with?  Perhaps some brewsky?  A little red wine, or Chablis?  I really am caught up in this material world, Lord, so what is it you want from me?  I really don’t know.

(Silence) 

“Yes, child, I would love to have something special this year from you.  It won’t take money, goodwill or cheer, or deep thought yoga, Joel Osteen or Billy Graham.  It won’t take peace in the Middle East.  It won’t be a new car or foot massage.  You see, child, I have all I want.  I have you.  I have your faith, and that makes me happy.  Happy forever, child.  I know I can count on your love and dedication forever.  I know you inside and out, and your heart is good, your mind, well, ok, your mind needs some work, but let’s face it, your heart is more important than physical weaknesses.  I made you that way for a reason.  Troublesome as you may think you are, you are not a trouble to me.  I love you just as you are, and your little grandchildren too.

I don’t want you to think that I am not here with you every day of your life, because I am.  I see the things you don’t see or recognize in yourself.  I know your past, I know your future.  You are doing everything you can with what strength you have, and that pleases me well.

This year, I want you to know that my Christmas present this year is you, now and forever.  It doesn’t take money to give me you.  I love you child, and I want you to have a lifetime of love and happiness.  I thank you for believing in me and my father, God.  We are both proud of you and want this Christmas to be your best, though you may think it is your worst.  Just remember that your faith is priceless.  Even a cave man knows that.”

“That was a joke.”

(Silence)  OK.