Every day before nap time or after nighttime prayers with Lauren, she leaves me with these parting words: “Merry Christmas, Mommy!”

It is January 28, and she is still wishing us a merry Christmas.

December was an amazing month for our family! It was full of fun, activity and family time (click here to read about our adventures). Most of all, it was full of Jesus. That joy continues to impress Lauren’s heart.

That’s the change Christmas should make in our lives. Jesus entered our world to spend time with us, to be with us. His name, Emmanuel, literally means “God with us.” He came to rescue us and show us what it means to truly live. And, it began at Christmas.

Every time Lauren leaves me with her “Merry Christmas” exclamation, I have to smile. Her joy is contagious, and it reminds me of what great love my Heavenly Father has for me.

Yes, all the decorations have been put away for more than a month. There are no twinkle lights on the houses any more, and it is actually above 70 degrees today.

But, in case you need that dose of cheer and goodwill and the reminder that Jesus is there with you today, let me repeat my sweet daughter’s words:

Merry Christmas!