ROOTED IN LOVE â—½ ENCOURAGEMENT
This is my first Christmas not getting to be Santa Claus.
Since becoming a mother in 2016, I’ve enjoyed being Santa Claus every year. I’ve always loved watching my kids open presents on Christmas morning, believing in the wonder and magic of Santa. There’s just something so sweet about being a parent at this time of year, and being Santa makes it even more fun. But those days are gone for me, and I’ll tell you why.
Both of my kids received Jesus as their Savior this past year, which was the greatest blessing ever. More than anything I’ve ever dreamed for my children, their salvation was my greatest prayer. I’m so proud of them for making that choice and I absolutely love watching their faith grow.
My husband and I both felt convicted that when they did make that choice, we should tell them the truth about Santa. It wasn’t like we were trading Jesus for Santa. We always told them the true meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate it, and we always made a point of putting Jesus first. But as their hearts grew in faith, we wanted them to know the truth about Santa, and this seemed like the best time to tell them.
We didn’t want them to find out from someone else and think we lied, and we wanted them to know the difference between truth and fiction. If they’re going to put their faith in something, then we feel it’s important to be honest with them about things they might believe in.
I have to be honest. It was a tough conversation to have. Tears were shed, and not just by the kids. It was hard for me to let go of that chapter in our lives – to realize that they’re outgrowing make-believe and growing into who God created them to be. By the end of our discussion, everyone felt good about things. The initial shock wore off and they understood that we pretended to be Santa to make the holiday more fun. We explained that sometimes we want to give gifts without getting all the credit, so being Santa is a way for parents to do that. We told them about the real story of St. Nick and how Santa is more of an idea than an actual person, and that we can all be Santa by doing kind things for others.
They’re okay with there not being a Santa Claus, but sometimes I still feel a little sad. It’s hard to admit it, but I struggle with the very thing I’m trying to teach my kids. That Christmas isn’t about a jolly guy in a red suit who gives out presents. It’s not about the shiny wrapping paper or the twinkly lights. It’s not about music or sleigh rides or parties.
It’s about Jesus and the gifts He gives us – mercy, grace, peace, love, forgiveness, joy. It’s about the King of Kings coming to earth as a humble baby so He could give His life for our ransom. It’s about the greatest gift of all. The gift of salvation. The gift my children have chosen to receive. And that’s so much greater than any present I could ever put under the tree.
I’ll miss my days of being Santa, but I’m thankful for the days I’m living now. Teaching my children what it means to live out their faith. Learning and growing together as we journey through life each day. Discovering truth and trusting Jesus to be our guide. Yes, being Santa was fun. But being a follower of Jesus is so much better. And it’s even sweeter knowing that my children know the truth now, too.