All I want for Christmas is...

It’s kind of funny, I’m 24, but Stanley Clause still makes an appearance at the Buncher house every year.  Each year Mom and Dad (Stan) ask me what I want for Christmas.  Typically I reply saying Malibu Barbie and her dream house, they are never pleased with that response, and Barbie never comes over for Christmas.  Most of the time I have no idea what to ask for.  This year I told them I wanted a spice rack. 

What do I want for Christmas?  It dawned on me today.  I was in the chapel looking through my prayer book and came across a prayer for the gifts of the Holy Spirit.  These gifts are talked about when we get Confirmed, and at Pentecost, but why not ask for them now, for Christmas?

My Christmas List:
Wisdom- That I may always see how God is moving in my life and find deeper meaning in daily events.
Understanding- That I may seek and know God’s truth in all situations.
Right Judgement- To know the difference between right and wrong, and have the ability to choose what is right.
Courage- That I am willing to take risk as a follower of Christ.
Knowledge- That I may constantly be learning more about my Catholic Faith.
Reverence- That I can totally respect the God and the Church, and fully rely on God going to him with humility, trust, and love.
Wonder and Awe (fear of the Lord)- That I may be aware of God’s Perfect Knowledge, goodness, power and love. 

How am I going to make sure that I receive these gifts?  Well I have to do my best to stay off the naughty list, but since I am human I have to clean up every once in a while.  I need to make sure there isn’t any blockage in my spiritual chimney making it hard for the spirit to come though (confession).  Then it will be party time and I will go to the celebration and feast on the banquet (Mass).  And how will I get what I want if I don’t ask (ask and you shall receive).  If the door bell rings I better be there to answer (accept the gift) and bring it into my home, I would hate to have God leave my gift on the front porch.

So maybe I won’t get the Chia Pet of my dreams this year, but hopefully God will deliver something much better. 

What do you want for Christmas?