1975 was a rough year for my family. There wasn't much to give that Christmas. The economy was really slow and my parents didn't even have enough money for a Christmas tree. My parents were farmers, and extra money was very slim. Therefore, my sisters began praying these exact words "Lord, please, we need a Christmas tree".

For as long as I can remember, we always had the perfect tree; a "Scottish Pine" with small needles that stood around seven feet tall. The tree always looked awesome on Christmas morning. We also loved to decorate that perfect tree.

A railroad track ran right through the middle of the farm. As my sisters were praying for the perfect tree, something amazing happened. A Christmas tree fell off of a boxcar into my dad's field. Later that day, my dad called the train station and told them what had happened. They surprisingly told him to keep the tree and to have a Merry Christmas.

Yes, in case you’re wondering, the tree was a "Scottish Pine" with small needles that stood about seven feet tall; the perfect tree. God does hear the prayers of a praying heart and still provides today. So, I encourage you to always be grateful for your Christmas blessings when they come your way!

During this Christmas season I am reminded of a scripture verse in Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (NKJV)

Enjoy your Christmas blessings and your special gifts this year.