When we think of Christmas, we think of gifts, a Christmas tree, shopping, preparation of goodies and being a little tired. It also comes to mind that because Thanksgiving was a week later, we actually have less time for this preparation. Maybe that’s a good thing. However, I am feeling rushed.
We put our families and ourselves through a lot during this lovely season. I thought we should look at just some of the aspects of Christmas and it’s celebration.
One of my friends said recently, “Christmas is the only time of year you can sit in front of a dead tree and eat candy out of socks.” Now there’s a thinker.
Then there’s the all-important religious side of the holiday. I recently read this explanation of what it could have been with three wise women and how that would have changed history.
“They would’ve asked directions, arrived on time, helped deliver the baby, brought practical gifts, cleaned the stable, made a casserole and there would be Peace on Earth!”
What a really different start that would have been!
Then we think back on all the beautiful music of the season. There are lively hymns like “Joy to the World” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” but probably the most beautiful and one most of us know all the verses, is “Silent Night.” It’s often sung at the end of the church service on Christmas Eve and brings a sense of calm, peace and understanding to exactly what this season means.
The words are gentle and tender and the music is simple and uncomplicated. It was composed for a Christmas Eve service in the early 1800s and soon became popular all over Europe. Some of the famous singing families of Austria and Germany sang it for European nobilities. Our affection for this song may result from quiet reflections that lead us to view the scene where “All is Calm,” which may help us to get away from the chaos of the season.
Even through the wrapping, shopping, baking, parties and travel, the hymn makes it possible to not only “Sleep,” but also “Live in Heavenly Peace.” It’s a totally calming feeling to sing that song late at night just before the birthday of Jesus Christ. We can hear the “Shepherds Quake” and “The Heavenly Host Sing Alleluia.” So, what is this season about really? It tells us very simply, “Christ the Savior is born.”
Then we will tell one more story. “It was the Sunday after Christmas and Pastor John was packing away all the figures in the front yard from the nativity scene. He noticed the baby Jesus was missing.
Just as he was about to call the police, he saw little Harry with a red wagon and inside was the little baby Jesus figure. The pastor immediately said, ‘Harry, where did you get the little infant?’ Harry replied, ‘I took him from the church, Pastor.
You see, about a week before Christmas I prayed to the little baby Jesus and asked for a red wagon for Christmas. I promised him if he got me one I’d take him for a ride around the block in it.’”
As many have recently said, “I still believe in Santa Claus. Even though he may not be the one who put the presents under the tree, his spirit works through us each time we give freely without expectation and each time we spread joy, love and light.”
And finally, she said, “My children want a cat for Christmas. Normally I cook a turkey, but hey, whatever makes them happy!”
I wish a Merry Christmas to all of you.
(Melanie Behrens – melb@marysvillejt.com)