We had a great time on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! Presents were opened up on Christmas Eve (most of them anyway), and we had a great time rejoicing in the remembrance of Christ's birth, the Light of the World! Preston turns 2 years old tomorrow actually (so close to Christmas) and the wonder of Preston's birth wells within me a renewed awe and wonder of the miracle of Christ's birth!
The most important thing that I kept thinking this Christmas was not only of the significance of Christ's birth, but that that in and of itself was not sufficient to redeem all who believed in the birth of an atonement of sins..... there had to be more to the story than the miraculous birth. Jesus had to grow older, teach, preach, call people to the truth of God's fullfillment of His prophecies in Jesus Christ, God's Son, as Jesus became thee sacrifice, once for all, to atone for the sins of those who believed in Him with their hearts and lives. Christ's death alone, again....was not sufficient to redeem us... Christ Jesus suffered physically leading up to the cross, and on that cross, and died physically, literally....
Then, Christ Jesus ROSE from death on the third day! Literally! Physically! Amazing! Jesus made his resurrection from the dead unmistakable to his Disciples, and to other witness for 40 days after his resurrection! There is no mistaking it!
John 3:16, the verse that most people have become familiar with, whether or not they know God..... is God's calling to all who would believe in What God has done for mankind. There are so many verses I could pull from....to help you understand God's prophecies fulfilled in this God-man Jesus Christ! I digress. :)
Anyways, ....we enjoyed opening gifts, and munching on sweets. :) Preston recieved a wooden toy train from his mom and dad. This is a 'Melissa & Doug' toy, and it comes with blocks of different shapes, painted in different colors. Preston also recieved two books (one from his mom, and one from his Nina) Preston also received a couple of clothing items.
Ethan got me a pair of pretty drop earrings (for a marvelous price), comfortable pants to sleep in, and my favorite kind of perfume (Romance by Ralph Lauren). :) I got Ethan belts, a nice sweater, and two nice shirts. Ethan also received pants.
Hoping you all had a great Christmas too! We missed being with family in Seattle this year, but hope we can make it next year. :)