The way in which we prepare for receiving the truth and spirit of Christmas is one of the most consequential things in life. In the way we get ready...what we think of it, what we expect and hope will happen, our attitudes and practices. These messages deal with preparing for the coming of God's gift. The experience of Christmas involves two things: God's gift to the world in the coming of Christ; and humankind's receiving of that gift in our lives and in our times. God's giving and humanity's receiving, these two, and there can be no real Christmas without both. Christmas is not just a date on a calendar. It is a truth in our minds and a spirit in our hearts. When the spirit and truth of Christ comes into a person and changes his attitude and actions, giving him new love and joy and faith and hope, whoever and whenever that may be - it is Christmas. Christmas began with God's giving. Christmas continues because human beings are still receiving.