Dear Friends,
The aspen trees have shed their shimmering gold leaves. Snow now caps the Rocky Mountains, and the lovely smoky aroma of freshly lit firewood wafts through the air. Here in Colorado, these are all signs that Christmas is near, and I wonder, will this be a holiday to remember? I know that it can be.
How can I be sure? It’s not because of a particular gift or family tradition. While these aspects of the season are very special, and I certainly look forward to the tasty treats—such as a steaming cup of hot chocolate, and even a large slice of fruitcake—it’s the certainty of God’s gift of His Son, Jesus, that ensures a memorable Christmas this year.
The Gift of Being Present
Throughout millennia, many have recounted the story of our Creator, Who constrained Himself within a tiny earthly body. He shared our humanity as He brought to us the free gift of abundant life for eternity.
The second chapter of Luke’s gospel provides a beautiful account of this divine interruption of history:
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.
And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. (Luke 2:11-19)
Each year, it becomes more meaningful for me as I contemplate the unfathomable nature of God’s presence with us.
Sadly, this year could be similar to many others that are overcome with hustle and bustle as shoppers vie for the latest gadgets or experiences. In this contest, winners leave with emptier pockets and heavier debts, while the unsuccessful carry a weight of anxiety as they search for the best consolation prize.
Most of us have experienced this scenario as we’ve made the common choice of focusing on buying gifts rather than being present. Yet the provider of all good things (James 1:17) made a different decision. He gave us His presence. Emmanuel. God with us.
So this year, I will spend less time shopping and more time freely giving to others what God has freely given to me (Matthew 10:8). I will choose to put aside the many distractions and aim to be truly present. Will you join me in that choice? It’s sure to make it a Christmas to remember for those you love.
The Dr. Dobson Minute
At JDFI, we have resources for every member of your family. Decades of broadcasts, books, and articles by Dr. James Dobson on raising families, living a godly and fulfilling life, and defending righteousness in the culture are now available on the JDFI website, as well as Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms.
We are especially pleased to announce the availability of more than 190 Dr. Dobson Minutes in seven languages on our mobile app.
In the “Media” tab on the app, visitors can select “Audio,” and then choose to listen in a variety of languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Hindi, or Mandarin (see the image below). And all of the content is in Dr. Dobson’s voice! We hope you will give it a try.
Memorial Matching Grant
This December marks the final month of the historic Dr. James Dobson Memorial Matching Grant. It is an incredible opportunity and statement of confidence for the only organization entrusted by Dr. Dobson to expand his work to new generations and geographies.
You Are a Blessing!
As this year comes to a close, we count you as our greatest blessing. Your ongoing support is humbling, and it enables us to continue being present as we share biblical wisdom from Dr. Dobson’s nearly fifty years of ministry. We hope you will consider JDFI during your year-end giving.
Praying a very joyful and present Christmas for you and yours,
Bart Brock, Ph.D.
Chairman and President
Dr. James Dobson Family Institute
This letter may be reproduced without change and in its entirety for non-commercial and non-political purposes without prior permission from the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute.
