This was sent to me by another missionary mom...

It is truly BEAUTIFUL...

Though, I believe with all of my heart...there is NO SACRIFICE 

that can equal...what our Lord and Savior has given us...

...His ATONING SACRIFICE...

Mothers...often feel very deeply when separated from their child...

Our Father in Heaven sent his BELOVED son...and stood watch

over the GREAT SACRIFICE His son was WILLING

to make FOR us...I believe...that could

not have been easy...to witness...

I am so GRATEFUL for the decisions our children have made

to SERVE a FULL-TIME MISSION...I know the time passes VERY QUICKLY...

and the prize given back to the MOTHER...

is the MIRACLE of the

growth of their child... 

Mama Smith

A MISSIONARY CHRISTMAS

(author unknown)

I skipped the sales after Thanksgiving. The thrill just wasn't there.
No pictures taken with Santa Claus, my decorating has no flair.
His presents are shoes, shirts, and ties, two suits and socks...no fun. I've bought him all white clothes because...This year I'm giving Christ my son.

I've spent more time in the temple, my testimony stirred.
I've reread November's Ensign, Felt strength come from His words.
Our family prays more frequently. My tears are quick to run.
Abraham seems closer because, This year I'm giving Christ my son.

I wonder how those Lamanite mothers, gave their sons to war?
Or how the pioneers chose Zion, their sacrifice was so much more.
My loss will be his presence, I'll miss his smile a ton, for two years we will pray for him, I'm giving Christ my son.

I stare at his face when he's not looking. I memorize his eyes, their shine.
He's always hungered for the part of him, that makes his soul divine.
The stories and lessons he always heard, His choice and mine are one. I'll put my faith in God's hand, This year, I'm giving Him my son.

Past gifts have lost their glitter; I think I finally understand, Christ's birth should be celebrated by giving Him a hand.
It's because I know Christ lives and reigns that all his packing's done. My gift has taken years to make, This year...I'm giving Christ my son.

I know there's One who understands, the sacrifice I'm making.
Who knows the gift I willingly give, The toll it will be taking.
For He has done it all before Greater love - there could be none. For years ago God gave to me, His only begotten son.

The hands I washed, the hands I held, The hands I taught to pray; Now knock on doors to find the ones Who will listen to what he'll say. Because I know Christ needs him, Until all the gathering's done, My gift has taken years to make. This year...I'm giving Christ my son. —