I checked the last name off of my Christmas list, waited for Monique and Victoria to get tired of trying and buying skirts and even squeezed in a brief visit with my niece, Brittany. Next on my agenda: dinner.

“Would you like to start with an appetizer like our Bloomin’ Onion?” the waiter asked.

Before my daughters could stop me, I answered, “Oh, no, we can’t. Every time Victoria and I order one, we eat a few pieces, bring the rest home, and no one finishes it.”

“But they are good,” Victoria added.

“Maybe you should reheat it. It’s just not good cold,” Monique said.

“We do have other appetizers,” the waiter suggested.

“And we probably have a story about each one, “ Victoria answered, causing all four of us to laugh. Victoria was correct. We have many stories, but fortunately our repertoire extends far beyond appetizers. One of my favorites is the Christmas Story.

Life must have looked pretty good to Mary before the angel’s visit. Her engagement to Joseph was probably the fulfillment of her dream. Then the Holy Spirit surrounded her, the power of God overshadowed her, and Jesus, the Word in flesh, was implanted in her. Her dream was about to take on incredible new dimensions. The Word inside of her caused her to grow but not just physically. He changed her plans and challenged the thinking of those with whom she was in contact.

A few months later, while most of the world was sleeping, she brought forth Life. Because there was no room elsewhere, Jesus, the Light of the world, was humbly born in a stable. The One Who had already changed her was about to shake the community and eventually the world.

While the story of Jesus’ life on Earth begins with Christmas, it doesn’t end there. He didn’t remain in the manger. Jesus grew, leading

a sinless life as He taught, heal-

ed, delivered and loved. He then became the ultimate sacrifice as He willingly died on the cross for our sins.

As this story is told and retold, I am always challenged. Have I made room in my heart for Jesus? Will I allow Him to change me, enlarge

my vision and challenge my thoughts?

Just as in the time of Mary, there are many people living good lives, dreaming good dreams and making commonsense plans. But do they know the story? The entire Christmas story of the Greatest Gift? Will I take the time to tell them?

Will you?

Ronny may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.