” Circle of love, halo of light. When Jesus was born on that Christmas night, and oh what a night, that holy night was, when Bethlehem glowed with a circle of love.”

If you know me, you know that I love Christmas movies, and for the last two years NBC has aired two movies written and produced by Dolly Parton. Both movies were inspired by true stories from Dolly’s childhood. The first one was called “Coat of Many Colors” based on the song that shared the same name. The second one is “Christmas of Many Colors:  Circle of Love.” Dolly’s family was poor and didn’t have many earthly possessions but they were close to one another, and shared the love of Christ. These movies act as reminders for us today regarding what is most important. We would all benefit by learning a few lessons from Dolly and her family.

In the first one, Dolly’s mom made her a coat using old patchwork material. She treasured it and thought it was wonderful but her peers made fun of her. The experience upset and embarrassed her at first, but as she matured she was proud, and wore it each day acting as if it was the latest fashion. That coat was more than a coat, it represented the sacrifice and love of a mother. Throughout the movie, the Partons endured much suffering but the best gift to the family was Dolly’s Father accepting the gift of Salvation. This was a true miracle, and an answer to prayer.

The second movie focused around Christmas again, and the family seemed closer to the Lord and each other more than ever before. However, money was tight and getting Christmas presents for each other was a real sacrifice. Dolly and her siblings decided to come together, earn money, and help buy their mother the wedding band she wanted. They were even willing to give up their own gifts so they could do this. This was such a reminder of selflessness and loving one another. Most children (or even adults) would not do what the Parton family did, especially with such a joyful spirit.

These movies shared truths of what is most important, but in the society we live in today those standards and values are no longer respected. The most impressive fact during each movie was the emphasis the writers put on Jesus Christ, and everyone’s need for Salvation. Dolly shined the light of Jesus and didn’t tone down the Gospel message even once. This is a rarity, especially for a network such as NBC. The movie dwelled on a simpler time and shared with us the priorities of loving Jesus, family, and others. The movies also portrayed great humility and selflessness. Those principles can never be taken away no matter how rich or poor someone is. By living with these attitudes peace and joy will fill your hearts.

Careers, money, or extravagant things won’t last forever, but loving Jesus, family, and others with a humble heart and mind will never fade.

We live in a world of hustle and carry the mindset that portrays “it’s all about me,” and the entertainment industry feeds this attitude. However, that makes for a miserable and chaotic life.

As you go through December spend some time loving Jesus and adopt His heart for others. Ask God to give you wisdom on how to best love and encourage those around you. Live in and accept God’s love because that is the best gift of all.

Visit here for more information and to watch the movie online, and be sure to watch with your family.