Legislative Column for Dec. 15, 2017
As we prepare for Christmas, we are surrounded by the signs of the season. The stockings have been hung with care, packages wrapped with brightly colored bows and the Christmas tree decorated with ornaments old and new. While these Christmas traditions remind us of the holidays, it is not exactly what makes this the most wonderful time of the year.
Many times we forget the true meaning of Christmas, the opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. As a child, I recall the excitement of Christmas, but I also remember the importance of celebrating Christ’s birth and what it means for all of us. It is important that we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and pass the true significance of the holiday season along to our children and grandchildren.
The true meaning of Christmas lies in the manger, with the love of the Lord in our hearts. The garland, the strands of lights, the pile of gifts under the Christmas tree—while all of them serve to add to the festivities, the real beauty lies in the reason for the season. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, but I pray each of you find time to reflect during the holidays. Take the opportunity to recognize how truly blessed each of us are as Americans. I hope the reason for the season inspires you to volunteer at a local food bank or donate clothing, food or toys to those who are less fortunate.
Christmas stands for family. It stands for generosity. And it stands for faith. No other holiday brings with it the magnitude of goodwill, or the innocent excitement. The way people choose to spend their time with their families, show their generosity and express their faith is up to them. In America, we are free to celebrate how we wish.
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882.