Sen. Dan Hegeman’s Capitol Report for the Week of Dec. 17, 2018

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Wishing a Merry Christmas to All

Christmas is just around the corner, and families across Missouri are busy preparing for the holiday season. From cooking meals to wrapping presents to setting up decorations, there’s just so much to do. However, it’s important during this busy time of year that we remember to slow down and not lose sight of the reason for the season: gathering close to our loved ones to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

As the Messiah, Jesus spent his life on Earth spreading God’s message of love and forgiveness. He encouraged all those he met to put others before themselves. Jesus, himself, is the greatest example of someone who practiced what he preached. By accepting punishment for the sins of mankind, he suffered immensely to offer us the gift of eternal salvation. Now we are asked to follow in his footsteps, serving others in whatever way we can.

There are many different ways for us to demonstrate the Christmas spirit. Around the holidays, we can show appreciation for life’s blessings by donating our excess wealth and material goods, such as food and clothing, to families in need. There are many worthy charities to consider; without the support of people who care, the good these groups accomplish just wouldn’t be possible.

But physical items aren’t the only things we can donate. Sometimes, just taking the time to be around others and offer them the pleasure of our company is enough. Families are a blessing we should never take for granted. From my family to yours, have a Merry Christmas!

As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.