By Larry Stover

It’s Christmas Day! That long awaited magical and sacred day has arrived! The noise of happy children fills the air. Presents have been opened. Sounds of excitement resonate throughout the house over those special gifts received from “Santa” and the family.

Yuletide aromas, like a gentle breeze, flow from the kitchen throughout the house as Christmas dinner is being prepared. Many will be enjoying those once-a-year dishes only prepared for special festive occasions. Can you smell it grandma’s pies and cakes? Can you taste the ambrosia and cranberry relish?

We cannot ignore those infamous family discussions. “Divided” homes continue to rewrite the football seasons for Alabama and Auburn.

Let’s not forget about politics. When families get together, they have to discuss what’s going on in Washington, DC. As the support and ratings of the legislators in Washington continue to spiral down, it gives rise to a plethora of solutions from all of us in grass roots America. Unfortunately, they quit listening to us long ago.

There are three things usually off limits at gatherings that keep animated discussions going. We have already discussed sports and politics. That leaves religion as the only unsolved debate.

Christmas is the most important date on the Christian calendar next to Easter. It was an angel of the Lord who told Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, to name Mary’s son, Jesus, because He was coming to “save the people from their sins.” Angels, again, announced the birth of Jesus to a group of startled and confused shepherds; “you will find the baby wrapped in cloth and lying in a manger.” They went to see Jesus. Later, Magi came to see Jesus. They came to worship this new King and present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

For over 2,000 years people continue to seek this “Savior” who continues to transform their lives from being selfish and self-centered to living a life that continually sees the manifestation of the “Fruit of the Spirit” and reflects the principles of the “Sermon on the Mount” delivered by Jesus Christ, himself.

Once again we decided to accept or reject the Messiah. He has come! He is alive today! His Holy Spirit continues to move in the hearts of men. In the words of Revelation 3:20, “He is still knocking on the door of our life.” If we will open that door, He is ready to forgive us and usher in a new beginning that has never existed before. That is the gift of Christmas. That’s what makes this time of year “Simply Beautiful!”