Crowell: The Real Christmas Story

When many think of Christmas, images of hectic malls, children asking for gifts from Santa, and a decked-out Christmas tree come to mind.  It might even bring up memories of reading or watching the many "Christmas stories" on television and in books.  Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, Frosty the Snowman, and Dr. Suess' The Grinch Who Stole Christmas are some of the more common stories that come to mind.  These stories are fun and enjoyable, but they fail to mention the true meaning of the holiday and real story of Christmas.

The real Christmas story comes from the disciples Matthew and Luke.  It is through their voices that we can experience the birth of Christ.  These two writers provide us with all the details that give life to the annual celebration of the birth of our Lord.

"An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in he town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.' Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.'" – Luke 2:9-14

Remembering the true meaning of Christmas can be done in a variety of ways.  This might mean taking time to pray and read passages from the Bible with your family.  You may also choose to spread good will by volunteering.  The following locations in Southeast Missouri are a number of places in our community where we can do that:

Bollinger County:
Nutrition Center, 505 Third Street, Marble Hill, (573) 238-2809
Cape Girardeau County:
Missouri Veterans' Home, 2400 Veterans Memorial Drive, Cape Girardeau, (573) 290-5870
Salvation Army, 701 Good Hope, Cape Girardeau, (573) 335-7000
United Way, 430A Broadway, Cape Girardeau, (573) 334-9634
Madison County:
Sheltered Workshop, 425 N. Chamber, Fredericktown, (573) 783-4037
Mississippi County:
Retired Senior Volunteer Program through the East Prairie Chamber of Commerce, 106 S. Washington, East Prairie, (573)649-5243
Charleston Nutrition Center, 205 W. Commercial, Charleston, (573) 683-6115
Perry County:
East Missouri Action Agency, 1121 W. Ste. Maries, Perryville, (573) 547-2014
Scott County:
Sikeston Food Pantry and Southeast Missouri Food Bank, 104 Keystone Drive, Sikeston, (573) 471-1818

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate this wonderful holiday and this miraculous event, I hope it is a time that is full of joy and love with the ones you care about.

Christmas is also a time of reflection and thanks.  I would like to thank all of you for giving me the opportunity to represent you in the Missouri Senate.  It is an honor and a privilege, and I am grateful to you for giving me this opportunity. I trust that your Christmas will be filled with warmth and meaning as you gather with your loved ones and reflect on the true meaning of this blessed holiday.

Contact Me

As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions, and concerns.  Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-2459.  You may write to me at Jason Crowell; Missouri Senate; State Capitol; Jefferson City, MO 65101, or email me at: jcrowell@senate.mo.gov or visit me on the web at http://www.senate.mo.gov/crowell.

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