Abby's Christmas Wish: A Gift of Love and Water

Abby and her parents were driving home from church. Abby’s mom turned to her and asked, “What did you learn at church today, Abby?”

Abby’s eyes lit up, and she said excitedly, “We learned that Jesus' birthday is on Christmas! Mommy, can you tell me the story of how He was born?”

Mom smiled and said, “Well, one day, an angel named Gabriel came to Mary. He said, ‘Mary, you are special to God. You will have a baby, and you will name him Jesus.’ Mary was surprised and asked the angel, ‘How will this happen?’ Gabriel said, ‘God will make this happen. The Holy Spirit will help you.’”

Mom continued, “And so, Mary had baby Jesus, not in a warm house, but in a barn. She put him in a manger, which is a kind of box where animals eat. And that is how Jesus was born.”

Abby looked up at her mom and asked, “Tell me more, Mommy! I want to know everything about Jesus!”

Mom nodded and began reading from the Bible. She told Abby about all the wonderful things Jesus did.

“Jesus helped blind people see. He fed 5,000 people with just a few pieces of bread and fish! And Jesus is called the ‘Living Water.’”

Abby’s face looked puzzled. “What’s ‘Living Water,’ Mommy?”

Mom smiled and explained, “It means that when we feel empty or sad, we can pray to Jesus. He will fill us up with His love and peace, just like water fills a glass.”

Abby thought for a moment and asked, “But Mommy, why do I still get thirsty sometimes?”

Mom answered, “Well, you might still feel thirsty for real water, but when Jesus talks about Living Water, He means that He can fill our hearts with love. And we can also help others when they’re thirsty for real water.”

Abby’s eyes grew wide. “Really, Mommy? People are helping kids who don’t have enough water?”

“Yes,” said her mom, “There are people all over the world helping kids just like you who don’t have enough to drink.”

Abby smiled. “That’s so nice!”

Her mom added, “And did you know that the people helping others are like your brothers and sisters?”

Abby was confused. “I don’t have any brothers or sisters.”

Mom explained, “When we believe in Jesus, He makes us part of His big family. So all the people who love Jesus are like brothers and sisters to you.” She spread her arms wide. “Everyone who believes in Jesus is your family!”

Abby’s eyes grew big. “Wow! Jesus is so cool!”

Then Abby had an idea. “Mommy, instead of getting me presents for Christmas, can we help my brothers and sisters and make sure they don’t have to be thirsty anymore?”

Mom smiled and hugged Abby. “That’s a wonderful idea! Jesus says when you help others, you’re helping Him too.”

Abby smiled back. “So when we help people get water, we’re giving water to Jesus!”

“Yes, that’s right!” said her mom.