"It's the most wonderful time of the year," Andy Williams sang in a 1963 hit that has become a Christmas standard.
But what makes this time of year wonderful?
Yes, we get to spend time with our family and friends, and kids look forward to presents, but what makes this season special is the celebration of our Savior, Jesus Christ's, birth.
"Joy to the World," a Christmas carol, has these lyrics: "Let every heart prepare Him room…."
What preparations are you making for the Lord Jesus?
My husband, Jim, and I prepare gifts and food for others.
The faithful can serve God by giving these no- or low-cost gifts that reap lasting rewards:
●Visit residents of nursing homes and assisted living and rehabilitation facilities. Even better, assemble a group to sing Christmas carols at local nursing homes. You will bring many smiles to the residents and staffers.
Call ahead to request permission before you go.
●Donate blood. Blood donations are always needed, so your blood might save a life, or make a cancer patient more comfortable.
Crestview's OneBlood Donor Center is at 2400 S. Ferdon Blvd. Suite B. Call 306-2455 for hours.
●Adopt a pet. Many cats and dogs need "furever" homes this Christmas. Dogs and cats are sweet, loving and longing for a special home.
Feline Friends of North Okaloosa County — 682-7273 — is running a special this month: The adoption fee is just $25 per cat or kitten.
Panhandle Animal Lovers — 683-4104 — has wonderful dogs that need good homes. Many times, loving pets have been surrendered due to a change in their owner's circumstances.
The kind people who run these local rescues could use some Christmas cheer, and they always need these items:
●Dry dog food
●Dry Purina cat and kitten chow
●Canned Friskies cat food — no beef
●Puppy pads
●Clay cat litter
●Towels and blankets — new and used
●Paper towels and drawstring trash bags
●Donations for spaying and neutering, and heartworm treatment
●Foster homes
Have a wonderful week as we count down the days until Christmas.
Janice Lynn Crose lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CROSE: 3 low- or no-cost Christmas gift ideas