A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

— John 13:34-35

It is the spirit and the love that makes this holiday so special, not the gifts, lights or trees.

For all the effort put forth in decorating and wrapping presents, the specialness of Christmas — the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus — really comes from the love and the kindness we show for each other. It’s the hugs and smiles and good deeds from the heart that make this day so special.

We run ourselves ragged and spend lots of money trying to make everything perfect for this morning. And at times, we can get so preoccupied that we forget the real treasures of Christmas.

Baubles and trinkets may offer temporary delight, but even gold and rubies don’t have as much lasting value as the love of the giver. It’s not the size of the gift that matters as the thought behind it.

A gift made by hand can have more meaning than the most expensive of store-bought luxuries because it shows love and caring, and that’s what Christmas is all about. Matter of fact, you can have a Merry Christmas just by sharing the gifts of love, companionship and kindness. These are gifts of lasting value that cost nothing except some time and goodwill.

So no matter what, enjoy this wonderful Christmas morning.