The prep, the planning, the decorating, the shopping, the wrapping, the cooking and now Christmas is over. Wait a minute; it doesn't have to be over. I think we need a little Christmas right this very minute!

I know that some say Santa is a myth, but he doesn't have to be. Jesus is the reason for the season, but Santa is the magic of the season. Kids grow up to fast; they need a little magic in their lives, time to dream, time to wish upon a star.

St Nicholas was a real person, a man with a loving heart who cared about children. Stockings were filled while children were sleeping. Nicholas did his gift giving secretly, under cover of darkness. (And he still does.) He didn't want to be seen and recognized as he wanted those he helped to give thanks to God. He had a seasonal concern for the needy and gave gifts to those in greatest need—the young and the most vulnerable. Christmas gifts and baskets given to those in need, along with other seasonal contributions to charity, reflect St. Nicholas' unselfish concern for others. He never wanted or expected anything in return. He represents the spirit of Christmas. When he died mankind carried on those traditions.

Wouldn't it be nice if we could carry on this spirit of unselfish giving every day? That’s exactly what Christ expects us to do. It’s what He is all about. Giving, loving, sharing, joy, peace – He is the reason for the season, God's ultimate gift to mankind -- a Savior. Folks, I personally think we need a little Christmas every single day from Christ, from Santa, from mankind--we need it.

And on that note, I hope you all had a happy and blessed Christmas -- if you didn't, maybe you need to practice your "ho ho ho's." Until next time.