We always ask for similar things for Christmas-- peace on earth, goodwill towards men, the iPhone 7, a car, and so on. I'm guilty of asking for material objects myself, to be honest. This year I continued my requests for materialistic gifts. My family and friends blessed me greatly. However, the biggest blessing this year didn't come in boxes and bags-- it came from God.

This Christmas, God gave us something we had missing for quite a while-- family. These past several years, our family felt like it was falling apart. Last year, I remember specifically the anger and hurt and helplessness I felt, as did my relatives.

We didn't have that this time. God healed our family; He brought us all back together. Our gathering was filled with laughter and love, forgiveness and joy. As I was sitting on the couch in my Meemee's home, I couldn't help but smile to myself. Warmth spread throughout my body and my heart swelled with love. Watching all of them brought me a feeling I hadn't felt in a long time when we were together. On Christmas day, He continued to bless us by healing our family even more than the night before. He gave us someone we thought we would never see again in an even better condition than any other time before.

I've always believed in the magic of Christmas and the miracles of Jesus. These few past Decembers had me questioning just how magical the season was. However, this year proved it to me.

Santa didn't bring me the best gift this year-- God did. He brought me something greater than any gift I could have ever imagined.

To all my family and friends, I love you. I hope you had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

God bless.