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Jesus’ Wish List by Dr. Stephen Lowell Swisher Every year in November, for the past seven years, I have been honored to serve as chaplain for the Tony Orlando Salute to Veterans celebration in Branson, Mo. This Veterans Day event is the largest in the United States as it draws thousands of people from across the nation. I look forward to celebrating the contributions our brave men and women have made through their service in the U.S. Armed Forces. But I also relish the feeling of Christmas that is evoked by the decorations, lights, music and aura of the season that is so much a part of that community. In between working and ministering, I try to partake of as many Christmas programs as possible. My favorite has always been the Andy Williams Show, where each year I would be invited backstage to visit with the late Mr. Williams and have a time of prayer with him. Whenever someone would ask, “When does the Christmas season start in Branson?” the answer would always be the same: “Whenever Mr. Williams says it does.” Of course, that was said partly in jest and meant as a compliment to Andy, who was known around the world as “Mr. Christmas.” But it was also true that many would plan their shows based on his starting date. Another of our favorite shows is the Tony Orlando All-American Christmas. This show is a wonderful tribute to The Lord and the meaning of Christmas, and always included the playing of that wonderful song, “My Grown-Up Christmas List.” I can hear it being sung right now, and the meaningful part that goes: “No more lives torn apart, that wars would never start, and time would heal all hearts. And everyone would have a friend, and right would always win, and love would never end. This is my grown-up Christmas list.” Do you struggle to come up with the perfect gifts each Christmas for the special people in your life? It can be tough, but here’s an even more important question that is reflected in the song lyrics above: What would likely be on Jesus’ wish list? After all, it is His birthday. How can we change the traditional focus of Christmas from materialistic self-indulgence to giving Jesus what He desires on His birthday? How can we make it less about us and more about Him? If Jesus were to have a Christmas “wish list,” here are some things I believe He might include: Commitment to Him Over Consumption These days, flying can be frustrating, but I’ve learned you can reduce stress by paying special attention to how you pack. My new strategy for packing is “less is more.” If I can’t fit it into my one carry-on bag, it stays home. By carrying on a relatively light bag, I save about an hour each leg of the trip by not having to wait at baggage claims. That saves about a week of my life each year! Plus, the added assurance that my travel items won’t be lost in the process adds to my peace of mind. Simplicity reduces stress, and that’s an important principle—not just for travel, but for Christmastime as well. What we spend our money on reveals our ultimate values. It is a demonstration of what we truly worship. 18 : BVOV : DEC '13