The Gift

14 year old Jane still could not understand what Christmas was. What is Christmas anyway? What would be at Christmas? Would there be friends? Would there be a family reunion? Would there be gifts and surprises? What is so special about Christmas?

Jane was still wondering what Christmas was. There were many other kids younger than her running, playing, and shouting. They were ecstatic. Jane was puzzled. Why are they so happy? Was it because of the presents they were going to receive? Was it because of the happy mood and atmosphere?

Jane sighed. She had to go to church now. It was 6:30 already. Church was due to start at 7:00. She was never late. Her church was just a hundred meters away from her house. On the street, she saw children's running around. Teenagers of her age or older were chatting happily. The pastor was about to begin his speech when Jane reached the Church.

She was surprised how little people came to church. There were only around 20 to 30 people in the church. She couldn't blame them. She know people were busy during Christmas. Everyone was busy. Just about then, the pastor started his speech.

"Thank you everyone for coming. Today is a very special day. Today is Christmas. I am sure there are still some of you here who still don't understand what Christmas really is. Christmas, is merely not just about family reunions, nor playing games and activities. But, Christmas is about the commemoration of the love God gave us. That God gave us the most perfect gift on Christmas. He gave us His only son, Jesus. Family is wonderful, but that is not the meaning of Christmas. Friends are great, but still that is not the true meaning of Christmas. The gift that God gave us, his only Son, Jesus is the true meaning of Christmas."

After some time, Jane went home happily. It was already late at night, the sky is dark. She looked up at the sky and stared at the twinkling stars. She finally understood

...