The Gift to Us

Neither my husband or I can remember a time when our parents weren’t present for the big moments in our lives. They never missed a sporting event, even if they had to drive hours or skip work to do so. They volunteered in our classrooms, made every birthday special, took us to get our license when we turned 16 and cried tears of joy when we said our “I do’s”.

I think so often we forget that they were also there in the little moments. They were there to read us bedtime stories, cook us more meals than we can count, take us to practice, hear about our bad day when no one else cared and answer the phone no matter what time we called.

Our parents want nothing more than to be a part of every aspect of our lives, no matter how big or small it seems to us. Now that we live away from my husband’s parents and we are restricted to phone calls, I can always hear the joy in Brett’s mom’s voice when she picks up the phone. Even a simple phone call to check in brings a smile to her face.

Just as our earthly parents have been there for every moment of our lives, so has our Heavenly Father. Whether we have recognized His presence or not, he has been there for us every step of the way on our journey to Heaven. In the moments that seem so insignificant to us, they are of great significance for the Father who counted every hair on our heads. (Luke 12:7) He has celebrated every triumph and carried us through our losses. When we haven’t had anywhere else to go, He’s been waiting with arms wide open.

He knows every thought, every action, every decision before we even make it and still wants to be included. When we think of how much our parents love us, it’s hard to grasp the reality of how much more God loves us.

As we prepare for Christmas, let us remember there is no greater gift we can give God than ourselves. He wants all of us, even our imperfections and bad days. He wants to be invited into union with his perfect creation, man and woman. He is patiently waiting for us to open the door to our hearts and allow Him in.

“As long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the Lord.” 1 Samuel 1:28

Let us give God the greatest gift of all this Christmas season, and dedicate ourselves to Him. 

[Readings: I Sm 1:24-28; Lk 1:46-56]

Brett and Taylor Akins

Brett and Taylor Akins both had reversions to the Catholic faith while in their early 20s. The two married in May of 2020 and moved from Oklahoma to Bakersfield, CA. Their passion is teaching the youth about the lives of the Saints, and how we are all called to Sainthood. Brett and Taylor spend their free time hanging out with their huge Catholic family and volunteering as Confirmation teachers. You can email Brett and Taylor at [email protected].

1 Comment

  1. Anara Maurice on December 22, 2020 at 7:08 am

    Amen and GOD bless u. Best wishes, marry Christmas

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