The Never Ending Tool Sale



It’s that time of year again when the halls of the Malls are jam packed with Christmas shoppers, which is how I ended up at the great holiday tool time sale at Home Depot—talk about heaven!  (Actually, I had another word in mind, but I’m not sure I can use that in a Christian newspaper). 

Unless you know a little something about the art of selecting the perfect tool for your not so perfect man—finding yourself in the middle of a tool sale can be a bit overwhelming. 

Fear took a grip, as I stood knee deep in socket wrenches, deluged by five different types of hammers, wondering if the men in my life would enjoy an electric screwdriver or should I buy them the old fashion kind?  I suddenly found myself grasping for breath, ogling women’s boots on sale just across the isle.   I couldn’t wait to get out of hardware heaven and into familiar territory—women’s clothing!  I should pretend to at least be somewhat interested, in tools (not boots or clothes), I thought.  “Why are we here, again?” I heard my cousin asked.  She came along to give me moral support.

Truthfully, I wasn’t sure how to reply for I myself had no clue.  I knew it had something to do with the spirit of giving…and then I began to think, there is a gift I could give the men in my life, or anyone else on my shopping list, for that matter—love.  After all, love is what the spirit of Christmas is really all about.  God gave the ultimate gift of love—His only son, a babe in a manger, who came to save a dying world. 

I suddenly realized as I was being pushed and battered, deluged by shopping carts and harried shoppers that I needed a little Christmas right that very minute.  During the rush of the season it’s easy to forget what the holiday is really all about—it’s not about Christmas trees and colored lights and buying presents for family and friends—it’s about love – something we should practice every day all year long.

I found a very nice sales clerk to assist me in my purchases, (he even carried my packages to the car).  I made sure I thanked him and wished him a blessed holiday season.  The smile he returned was worth the effort.  May you experience His love this holiday season and throughout the coming year.  
(This article first appeared in The Crossroads Dec. 2001)




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