For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

By tomorrow, the Christmas carols will no longer be playing on the radio.

I, for one, will be sorry to see them go -- with the possible exception of one song I have never learned to appreciate: "The Twelve Days of Christmas."

Yes, I've heard of the religious background behind the many verses, but the tune seems to go on and on and on and on. I get tired of hearing about five partridges leaping, sixteen lords a-milking, five swans a-fishing, and all the other things which my true love is supposed to have given to me.

Thankfully, Pam is more practical in her gift giving.

I can honestly say, however, she has not become so practical as to give me a tooth cleaning at the dentist. That's right: "a tooth cleaning." Earlier this month, Newsweek said some people were putting these in the stockings of their true loves. The article said people were giving their true loves the "gift of health." Other healthy-type gift suggestions were a paid doctor's visit, organic fruits and vegetables, yoga classes, and a bathroom scale.

In truth, I am thankful that my 'true love' hasn't given me any of those things.

Still, that doesn't mean I'm against all gifts of health. For example, John 3:16 says: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life."

So that I might be spiritually healthy and whole, forgiven and free, God sent His Son. Here, the baby of Bethlehem, the Christ of the cross, the Savior of the empty tomb, dedicated His entire life so I might be able to live forever.

From His first breath until His victory cry upon the cross, Jesus did all that was necessary to cure me of sin's disease.

That's why I think a rewrite of that song might be in order. How about this: "On every day of Christmas, my true Love gave to me: His own life to set my soul free."

The song wouldn't have many verses, but when it's sung that way, it doesn't need them. The first verse says it all.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, You lived, died, and rose so I might have spiritual health. May I always sing "Glory in the highest" for Your great gift. In Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Nehemiah 1-3    Revelation 16

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