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    This Tree
    by Ryan M. Roberts

    This is a picture of our Christmas tree,
    and it may be, that it means nothing to you,
    But to me . . .

    It was adorned by hands that I love, love, love,
    and is topped by a star of promise from above.

    The ornaments that fill the branches and boughs,
    hold stories that range from then until now.

    They are memories of God’s faithful hand in our lives,
    that tell of His goodness and keep Hope alive.

    The lights that shine brightly into the night,
    remind us it's time for joy and delight.

    The wondrous sight of our Christmas tree,
    calls to mind words the angel said unto me,

    "This day is born a Savior—Jesus your Lord,
    who paid a price for you, that none could afford."

    So, when I look at our tree, I see Jesus in all,
    I hear “Come unto me” and harken His call.

    This is a picture of our Christmas tree,
    And it may be, that it means nothing to you,
    But to me . . .

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    Christmas is about receiving presents, but consider how challenging it is to receive certain kinds of gifts. Some gifts by their very nature make you swallow your pride. … Some gifts are hard to receive, because to do so is to admit you have flaws and weaknesses and you need help. … There has never been a gift offered that makes you swallow your pride to the depths that the gifts of Jesus Christ requires us to do. Christmas means that we are so lost, so unable to save ourselves, that nothing less than the death of the Son of God himself could save us. That means you are not somebody who can pull yourself together and live a moral and good life. To accept the true Christmas gift, you have to admit you’re a sinner. You need to be saved by grace. — Tim Keller