Christmas Cards?

This was the first Christmas card.  To read the story go to www.victoriana.com/christmas/card1st-99.htm

So, lately I have been questioning the purpose of a lot of things.  I think we do things because other people do it, or because we have always done it, or because we just like to do it.  We also don't want to offend people so we just go along with the status quo.  Is that really how life should be lived?  SO much has been on our hearts this year.  We are seeing that life can be simplified, and God can be given the glory. 

One of those things I question the purpose of is Christmas Cards.  Some of you are thinking that it is kind, and you send them to show your friendship.  If we are honest, I think we do it because we feel like we have to.  That's not the way it should be.   I used to put a lot of time and effort into making my own cards, but looking back it was selfish.  I wanted others to think my card was so great, and it really glorified myself.  I love being crafty, but it was more than anything a waste of money.  I am realizing a lot of crafty projects are a waste of money, if the end result does not serve a purpose.  Sorry Pinterest addicts.  Let's face it, our money could go to something more, something greater. 

Being a mom of four, I really don't have time to sign our family name on a pretty card that is going to be thrown away, unless you are the crafty type who uses old Christmas cards.  Most all of the cards we receive just have a signature, and some are even pre-printed.  The photo cards, that I have even sent in the past, are just a way to show off our children, who by the way, are not perfect.  I can understand sending photos to relatives who live far away and who don't have facebook to see photos, but most people have facebook and already know what my children look like.

Now, if I did send out cards this year, I would definitely put time and effort into writing personalized notes in them.  That can be very encouraging, and there is purpose in that.  I am going to brag on my brother here.  Seth sent me the sweetest birthday card, that pretty much made me cry.  He personalized it.  The snoopy on the front was cute, but the most important part was his message.  I think that should be the purpose of cards.  

So, we are not sending out cards this year.  Sorry Dad, we are not supporting the USPS.  The money we would have spent has already went towards the World Vision gifts we bought for those in need and also to Lottie Moon.  Our friends already know we care about them and love them.  I hope I don't have to send out a card for them to know that.

Our Christmas has been extremely simple and stress free this year.  We do not have to go buy gifts.  When I go out to Walmart and see all the stuff I could be buying, I think about Christ, because I don't have to think about what gift I am going to buy for someone who doesn't need it anyway.  We are
not sending out Christmas cards.  No, we are not the Grinch family.  I'm sure many think we are crazy, or we are not showing love.  Think what you want.  We are just trying to bring purpose to Christmas, and not just talk about doing it.  It's not about tradition, it's not about stuff, it's not about us.  It's all about Him.