My grandbaby recently visited us here in The Woodlands and he found his way into my office and started banging on our old upright piano. As I listened to those tiny hands pound away on the keys, it brought back some really sweet memories. Fun fact: That piano was the very first piece of furniture my wife and I purchased together over 30 years ago. When we bought it, we knew it was old, however, after buying it we found out just how old it really was. It was built in the late 1800s. Talk about a surprise! It has a wonderful, rich history and story, and that (not so) little piano has been a treasured part of our home ever since, reminding us of the joy of finding something meaningful and beautiful.

Treasures like that piano are more than just objects –  they tell stories, carry memories and, in many cases, carry deep significance.

In Luke 2:19, we read about another kind of treasure: “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” As Mary reflected on the extraordinary events surrounding the birth of Jesus, it’s important to note that she didn’t just experience them – she held them close, cherishing their meaning every day of her life.

I wonder. Perhaps we can do the same?

As we journey toward Christmas, how can we treasure this Christmas story in our own lives? Here are a few ways.

• Reflect daily. Don’t just let the Christmas story find you on Sunday mornings at church. Let it speak to you in new and fresh ways every single day, asking God to show you something new about His love and faithfulness.
• Share the story. Talk with your family and friends about what the birth of Jesus means to you. What a treasure to pass on to your neighbor and the next generation.
• Live the message. Let the hope, joy, love and peace of Christ’s birth shine in your actions and words this Christmas season!

– Mark