Santa: What to tell your kids...

One of my hopes for this blog is there will develop a dialog regarding some posts. I'd really like to hear your thoughts and opinions. So chime in!

One of the most controversial topics, especially for parents is what to do with the subject of Santa. We've had a couple of approaches over the years.

The dilemma for parents is whether or not to tell kids there is a Santa who brings them gifts, thereby "ruining" the magic of Christmas - modeling to them it's OK to mislead if the end justifies the means.

Others foster telling their kids the true story of St. Nicholas and his generous heart and selfless acts.

Some have said Jesus brings their gifts. (Check out this Santa and Jesus similarity video - 2 minutes)

Still others are upfront with their three year old telling them that mom and dad give them their gifts ... not giving Santa ... or Jesus any of the credit!

There may be some questions my kids ask that are not age-appropriate for them to fully know. I personally want to create a family environment where my kids can ask tough questions, and they know I will be honest in my answers. That's what I want from them ... Now to bake some cookies for Santa. (haha)

So ... where to you lean in this conversation and why?

Trust

Yesterday had coffee with a friend of mine. He is one of those people who is full of integrity and who truly wants to use his gifts to benefit God's kingdom. He recently wrote this based on recent developments in his life.

Vulnerability + trust = order. Vulnerability - trust = chaos. It is interesting that both order and chaos have vulnerability in common. The difference is the issue of trust.

I trust Christ and my hope for any sense of order in the future is directly dependent on my trust in him and his way of living life. Without it I will be at the mercy of chaotic, empty promises and fear filled men.

Trust is the only way to clothe the nakedness of vulnerability. It is a fantasy for me to believe that I can get somewhere in life and never be vulnerable. Trust is the answer - believe me. I know.

Words to live by ... Thanks Rodderick!

[This is based on Genesis 1 through 3]