In these days leading up to Christmas, there are many out there suffering greatly with depression. All the hub-bub of the holidays can often add to that. The world is so focused on not offending others, that we might think that our lives have no real value. The confusion we are faced with today has to be disconcerting to all of us. Where do we fit in? Are we important? Do we matter?
If you feel alone – if you’ve lost your job – if you don’t know where your next meal will come from – if you have gone over your credit limit – face a serious illness – suffer from addiction – feel unworthy to feel joy – have suffered the loss of a loved one – you are not alone. The world is full of suffering people. OK, that may not make you feel better, but maybe this will.
No matter where you are in your journey – you have value – you are not alone – you have riches beyond compare – your pain and suffering are only temporary – there is work for you to do – you have the best gift ever this Christmas. This gift comes wrapped in rags. You will find it lying in an animal feeding trough in Bethlehem. It is a gift directly from the Creator of the world. It is a treasure unimaginable – precious beyond belief – given with inconceivable love at no cost to you. The trees we lay below the Christmas tree may give some joy for a little while, but the gift of a Savior lasts forever. He will never leave you. He gives your life purpose and usefulness. He has chosen you to dwell with Him in heaven. He didn’t seem to matter when He came into this world. He was poor. He was nothing special to look at. He spent His time serving others. He never sinned, even though He was tempted. He was laughed at, bullied at times, listened to at other times. He was a teacher, a healer, a miracle worker and yet He was humiliated, tortured and sent to die on a cross – for all of us.
Do we matter? Jesus thinks we do. He took on the sin of the world, so that those who believe His truth would inherit His kingdom. He loved us so much that He died for us.
The beauty of a freshly cut Christmas tree has been a tradition for many years. During the Victorian Era, candles were woven into the branches to be lit on Christmas Eve. Families would dance around the decorated arbor, singing festive songs. There were times we’d cut our own – an experience only intended for the young. The three children would be bundled to the point of being unable to move. Their dad would carry the youngest in a papoose on his back. We’d trudge deep into the tree farm in search of the most beautiful, perfect tree. By the time my artist husband determined which tree met his criteria, his beard was filled with icicles. The rest of us were anxious to get home to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate topped with ice cream. Today, our tree is a Charlie Brown branch with one ornament. Just the right size for two aging octogenarians.
The Christmas tree may be window dressing to some, but if you look at it from a spiritual perspective, there’s more to it. It all started in a garden with two trees. A tree was used to craft a manger which would hold the Savior of the world. His life would end, hanging from the cross beams made from a tree. He rose again so that we would gain eternal life in paradise. The green of the evergreen symbolizes that new life. The red trimmings signify the blood that was shed for us. The lights are reflections symbolic of Jesus’s followers and the star on top represents the Light of the World – Jesus.
May the Light of the World fill your hearts with peace, love and the promise of eternal life.
“The Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens seems to resonate from generation to generation. It is filled with ghosts, memories, poverty, illness, ignorance and want. Dickens was speaking from experience as he wrote this story of a stingy old man named Ebenezer Scrooge. It is a lifetime journey of a bitter fellow who doesn’t know the meaning of kindness. We’ve all met someone like Scrooge. He or she might be that boss that we recall who travels on a posh vacation while his employees’ hours are cut. It could be someone who has just suffered a loss of someone special in their life and has become bitter because of it. Maybe it’s a pair of homeless children, running from an abusive situation to escape any further abuse. Another example is someone who is far away from family and angry because a face-to-face conversation can only be accomplished through technology. The reasons for a not-so-merry Christmas are many.
All of us have reasons to be angry, bitter, cheap, depressed or anxious about Christmas. A year goes by, and we’re expected to be all jolly and generous. We spend more than we should, we max out the credit cards and the best gift becomes a competition of sorts. Charles Dickens grew up in a time like this. There were the rich and the poor – much like today. The rich celebrated lavishly with special food and laughter. It was a merry time for them. Many of the children of the day lived in poverty, were exposed to disease and early death. Education wasn’t an option for these little ones. They had to go to work, beg for food or go without.
This week we’ll be trimming Christmas trees, shopping for the last-minute gifts, singing carols of joy and praise. We’ll stress out because something isn’t right. The perfect Christmas we see in pictures on Pinterest, bomb royally in our own homes. The only perfect Christmas took place a couple thousand years ago as one of those poverty-stricken families made their way across rugged terrain to register for the census. A child would be born. He would be the hope of all nations, the Prince of Peace, the Son of God. The true joy of Christmas comes in the first birthday of Jesus. He alone was born to save us all.
“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach.” ― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
It was an amazing night of wonder and miracles. The little shepherd boy hugged the little lamb in his arms as he looked at the tiny baby in a manger. How could it be? This newborn infant was hailed as King by the angels out in the fields earlier. The brilliant star, which lit up the heavens, led them to the stable to witness the truth of their message. A child was born, but not just an ordinary child.
The shepherd boy nestled his fingers through the tightly woven coat of the lamb. His arms cradled the little animal close to his breast. He could feel its rapid heartbeat as he gently caressed the baby sheep. This young shepherd would be responsible for the lamb. He would make sure that there would be green pastures for it to graze upon. He would provide protection for the lamb against predators and foolish mistakes that it might make along the way. He loved his little lamb and would do anything for it.
As they left the stable, the young shepherd approached his older brother and said, “How could that little baby be the long-awaited Messiah?”
“Didn’t you see the star? Weren’t you witness to the angels in the sky? Of course, this must be the King we’ve been waiting for,” said the older shepherd.
“But he’s just a baby and aren’t kings supposed to be born in palaces with servants surrounding them? Didn’t you see? His bed was nothing but a feeding trough.”
His brother led him back to the hills and told him to wait there. He and the other shepherds had a job to do. They went to Bethlehem to tell the people what they had witnessed. Stars were twinkling above. The rustling of the sheep soon settled down and only a stray bleat could be heard. The boy looked up into the heavens. He remembered the stories that would be told around the campfire almost every night of his life. The story about King David, being the runt of his family – the last-born child, who was no more than a boy himself came to mind. When the new King of Israel was to be anointed, he would come from the line of Jesse. The least of the brothers would become the greatest. When faced with certain death, David would confront the giant, Goliath and defeat him with a slingshot and one stone. God provided the strength which instantly killed David’s opponent. He would rule as a great commander and chief. He was a warrior king. Maybe that’s what the young shepherd thought the Messiah would be.
As he stroked the head of the little lamb it became apparent that the baby in the manger was a descendent of King David. He looked at the little lamb in his arms. He knew it had only one purpose and would someday be sacrificed in the temple. The sacrifice had to be unblemished – perfect in every way. He cried softly as he thought about the fate of his pet but knew that it was the only way. It was then that he grasped the truth of the infant, Jesus. The babe in the manger was the unblemished sacrifice which had come to earth by miraculous means, to rescue all mankind. He would be the Savior of the world and truly the only King ever to be worshiped as God and man.
This week is all about Christmas. It’s a time of gifts and love – special decorations – beautiful light displays – shopping for the perfect gift – sharing – dreams. Children are dreaming of a special gift they’re hoping for. Teens dream about the ultimate technology gift. Adults are dreaming of large credit card bills and overspending. Senior citizens are dreaming of heaven and anxiously awaiting it. Dreams seem to be connected to this holiday. I guess you could consider the time itself to be loaded with dreams and heavenly things. Visions of sugar plums doesn’t mean much to society today. The focus seems to be on the tangible – like a new Tesla with a bow on it. The Ghost of Christmas Present, who made his appearance in Scrooge’s second dreamy visit, created all kinds of images of charity, love, peace on earth and the state of man’s existence. These are things we think about at Christmas, but they also deserve our attention every day.
Do you ever feel that you aren’t included in the forgiven category? The whole idea of God laying down His life for us might seem ridiculous. What kind of God do we have, who demands only that we believe and live our lives for Him? Who loves with unconditional love – no strings attached – no expectation of a pay back – perfect, sacrificial love? This time of celebration should be filled with extreme gratitude. It isn’t about what we give to others, what we do for charity. It isn’t about the value of our gifts. It’s all about the Son of God coming to earth to live with us. He experienced life as we know it, yet He never sinned. He was the perfect, unblemished lamb who took the sin of mankind to the cross and buried it there. It was the only way for our salvation to be won. God made a promise. He kept it. He lives with us still, through His Word and the Holy Spirit. When we come to Him, we know He is available for all our needs and dreams. Even the bad ones.
May the peace of this amazing week, live with us each and every day. We have been blessed by God, Our sins have been forgiven. Our future is guaranteed, because of this Savior we call Jesus. He lives with us still and we can get immediate access to HIm through our prayers and His Holy Scripture.
The third Sunday of Advent brings the lighting of the Joy candle. What does joy mean to you. When I hear the word, Joy, I’m reminded of my youngest daughter whose name is Joy. She was a December baby. We named her Joy Noel for this wonderful season of Jesus’ birth. I also think of the joy in my heart for every day of my life. I am so thankful for another day. Jesus has provided a new morning with my husband of almost 60 years. Joy can mean happiness, great news, wonderful happenings, special occasions and assorted other thoughts that make us feel good.
In keeping with God’s promise to give the world salvation through a Messiah, the fulfillment of that gift was sent to our world to deliver every single person from death and guilt. That’s good news that should make everyone happy – joyful – delighted – grateful – rejoicing – praising and thanking God – and fill our hearts with the greatest amount of optimism ever. The wait was long, but so worth it.
With Jesus life, death and resurrection, we are also assured of a life in eternity with Him. No more pain. No sorrow or death. Peace that transcends our understanding. We will meet Him face to face and bask in His light forever. When the Joy candle is lit, we can remember the wonderful gift we have received from our Living God.
HAPPY THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT – JOY CAME DOWN FROM HEAVEN TO LIVE AMONG US!
The world in pain and trouble lay, temptation all around,
But in a lowly feeding trough. a Savior could be found,
Born of a virgin, meek and mild and God’s own precious Son,
He took on earthly flesh and blood, with Him we would be one.
A stable filled with animals, would be his nursery,
His death would be upon a tree, He died for you and me,
His humble life was troublesome, He had no place to rest,
Yet in his short eventful life He gave to us His best.
When we feel lost and in distress, our hearts can jump for joy,
Because the man named Jesus, Christ, was born a baby boy,
He lived a life of poverty, experienced our pain
He rose again from death’s strong grip eternal life to gain.
So as we gaze upon that bed, that mass of smelly hay,
We see the God/Man, Jesus, Christ, who for our sins did pay,
He should have been upon a throne, but chose to live as we,
He died to pay the ransom price, the cost to set us free.
Emmanuel means God with us, He lived up to His name,
He didn’t come to win success or monetary gain,
He came to give us paradise, a gift beyond compare,
So, when we die, He’ll welcome us, within those gates up there.
The manger in the stable where Jesus would lay his little head, was most likely a trough made of stone, where the animals would refresh themselves with water or food. It was drooled over and licked by those same animals. It wasn’t a clean, luxurious bed, fit for the King of Creation. Animal dung would also surround the manger. The stable itself was probably a holding place for lambs that would someday be used for sacrifice in the temple. Why would God choose this dirty, disgusting, simple and lowly place for His Son to be born? He could’ve come in glorious honor and majesty. With trumpets announcing His entrance into the cold, dark world. His angelic messengers could have gone to the leadership in Jerusalem to make way for the newborn King. He could’ve been wrapped in robes of purple to indicate His royalty.
Instead, God chose this lonesome, desolate, filthy place. Was it to be symbolic of His coming to be the final sacrificial lamb without blemish? Was it so that God’s Son could experience life at its lowest level? Was His life of poverty, His lonely existence, His living as the average man of the time significant? Instead of a grand celebration and expensive gifts, this little baby came virtually without pomp and circumstance. Just another new kid on the block. Yet He was so much more than that. All of the prophesies about His birth, His early years, His suffering and shame were recorded and fulfilled by His coming to the world to be one of us.
When crowds would gather to hear His words, to be healed and ministered to, it was God talking, healing and teaching. When the scholars of the time questioned Him, He always had a lesson for them to learn through what He said. The pitiful slaughter of this unblemished lamb was not the final act of this story. He resurrected Himself to life, defeated death and the devil. He promised a new heaven and new earth at His next coming. Imagine the glory when He comes again. Jesus will be God with us for eternity. Come quickly, Lord, Jesus.
This time of year brings all kinds of expectation and anticipation. As we age, our ability to be patient has just about worn out completely and sitting in a waiting room can be as tough as waiting for something exciting or some bad news. We resist waiting. We want everything right now or sooner. When it comes to our future, we plan, we look forward, we make lists of things to do to get there and we can’t wait until it comes. Soon enough it does come and we are either delighted, disappointed or at a loss.
When the time of Advent is celebrated, we are in a time of preparation. We’re waiting for our Savior’s birth. We look forward to the celebration – the story of salvation – the angels – the songs – all the characters of the Nativity of Jesus. We often get lost in the gift buying, the food preparation and all the hub bub of society to focus on other things, but this is a time to look forward with great anticipation. It’s also a time of looking back and realizing that our future has been won for us by the Messiah promised so many years ago.
Are you ready? Is your heart open to hearing this story again and again? It isn’t just a time to reflect, but a joyful look into the future. The story of Jesus’ birth shows us how much God loves His creation. So much so, that He gave the greatest gift ever – His own Son would become one of us – both human, but also God. His life should’ve been like that of a king, but He humbled Himself, took on human flesh, lived a life of poverty and humility, so that we could obtain a piece of heaven.
During this last week before the big day arrives, prepare your hearts and minds for the truth of your forgiveness and your salvation. Jesus is waiting for us. He knows His sheep and we are part of His flock. Never forget, that this gift has already been given to each one of us and it doesn’t require a repayment.
It seems we wait forever, for things we want right now,
It is our chief endeavor as through each day we plow.
Our hearts are disappointed when things don’t go our way,
but God’s own Son anointed, made sure our debt to pay.
When life has got us longing for all it has to give,
When every new day dawning, our dreams we want to live,
We turn our thoughts to Jesus and know that all is done.
He listens and He sees us, the victory has been won.
As I searched for a picture for this post, all I could find was photographs of beautifully wrapped Christmas gifts, complete with ribbons and bows. I realized I forgot to add the “ghost” of Christmas to present. The Ghost of Christmas Present was described as a “jolly giant.” How often do we look at Christmas as a time of laughter, joy, lovely decorations and lights? Large, inflatable reminders of Christmas lay flat during the day, but at night, they become a backdrop for all the things we relate to celebrating this special time of the year. Charles Dickens, the author of “A Christmas Carol,” wrote the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his visits with three ghosts. The second of these three, represented hope for Scrooge’s redemption. He had already met the ghost of the past, reliving his dismal childhood, the loss of the love of his life and his concentration on making money. He had grown into a grumpy old man, but still had a nephew that cared about him. He was bitter about sharing his fortune with those in great need. He lived alone. He was at a point in life when death was waiting in the wings.
As I am in this particular time of life, I tend to think about past Christmases and turn them into wonderful memories. The truth is that Christmas present is the perfect time to make new memories. It’s an opportunity to share with others – not only the gifts, but things that mean much more. Spending time with those we love. Giving the gift of love and charity. Enjoying the merriment and festivities of the season. Most importantly focusing our attention on the Savior of the world, who truly brings redemption to each one of us.
We love stories like this one because we all need to be redeemed. Sometimes we forget that. We become overwhelmed by the emotions of Christmas. We can get depressed. melancholy, nostalgic, anxious and even think about our own lives in a negative way. Thankfully our story does not need to end with those gloomy things. Our future has been sealed by God Himself. He sent His Son for all humanity. Immanuel is God with us. Jesus became a human being, born into poverty and sadness. He grew as a child. Was bumped and bruised like most children are. He read the scriptures and attended the temple, even teaching the elders of the church. He started His ministry late in life, but in just three years, His message was so well received that it continues today. This was the only way for God to redeem us. We could not do it on our own. The expectations were far too great. Because of this wonderful season, we should focus on Him – the precious Son of God, King of Grace, Peace on Earth and the priceless ransom that we don’t deserve.
God’s Spirit lives in each one of us today. If we accept His truth, we are surely redeemed.
The innkeeper is never mentioned in the Bible, but we can assume there was one since Luke says there was no room at the inn. If this were a theatrical production, we’d call on a minor character to add some dramatic license at this point. Joseph and Mary were ordered to return to the city of their lineage to be counted in the first census. The little town of their ancestor David was almost a hundred miles from Nazareth, and it meant traveling through rocky terrain – the possibility of being attacked by Samaritans – and Mary was going to have her baby any minute.
Their means of transportation was a donkey and sandal power. They were tired – hungry – and Mary was great with child. You would think with all the relatives coming to this huge family reunion – there would be one that would open their home. As a final resort they turned to the town inn. By this time, Bethlehem was overflowing with visitors. The innkeeper was undoubtedly relishing in his instant success, but he had no idea what a treasure he was turning away that night. You can’t blame the guy. His house was full to the rafters with people. There was no room – none – nada.
How often do we turn away from Jesus? When we refuse to follow His commandments – when we blame Him for our problems – when we push aside His loving, helping hands and try to do things ourselves. He comes to us – we don’t come to Him. He asks us to accept Him – we don’t accept on our own (that comes from His Holy Spirit) – He wants to dwell in our hearts, and we close the door. Imagine the treasure we are turning aside each time we don’t let Him in. There was no room in the inn that night. Bodies were weary. Labor had begun. A King was born despite its earthly circumstances. Make room for Him.
Luke 2:7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
I’ve had the opportunity to direct several Christmas pageants over the years and one thing is for sure. No one wants to be a sheep. Sheep are stubborn – they stray from the flock and get in trouble – they don’t always follow the shepherd – they get dirty and they stink.
Well so much for bit parts. I guess that’s the truth for most dramatic presentations. No one wants to be low on the cast list. Getting prepared for those pageants wasn’t a breeze either. I remember making sheep costumes and running the sewing machine needle over my finger. As the blood gushed from my new wound, some of it seeped into the fluffy fabric of the sheep head I was creating. I thought about Jesus and the copious amounts of blood He shed for me and the entire world.
Second to sheep in importance are the shepherds. They spend all their time outdoors – in all kinds of inclement weather. Whether it’s hot or rainy, they’re required to stay with the flock and make sure it’s safe. There’s no time for clowning around or having any kind of fun, because they’re constantly on the lookout for wolves and other predators. Not only that, but they’re also dirty and they stink. Do you notice a trend here? Sheep and their shepherds were often dirty, and they didn’t smell good. They were considered pretty low on the job ladder – much like sailors of the time. When they weren’t working, they were often reckless and obnoxious.
I think it’s really cool that the angels appeared to these lowly individuals on that first noel. The Son of God was born in a cave reserved for animals. He was laid in a feeding trough instead of a royal bed. He was sung to sleep by the lowing of cattle and sheep. Here was the King of Kings, born in deepest poverty and humility. Here was the Son of God, who came to shepherd the world. He a became a sheep Himself to eventually be led to slaughter as the unblemished lamb necessary to remove our sin.
The people were expecting another king like their ancestor, David. They were looking for someone who would be victorious over their oppressors – one who would bring them worldly prosperity and glory. They wanted a flashy king – not a shepherd – not a smelly sheep.
This is the way God decided to come to us. He was born of a virgin – He lived a life of hard work, discipline, obedience and poverty – He taught the scriptures to the scholars of His childhood – He came to take our place – He proclaimed the truth of God’s message to the world – He didn’t come to be served, but to serve – He put Himself in the lowliest of positions, yet He proved His divinity when He resurrected Himself from death.
When you think about the pageantry of Christmas, the most amazing character in the story was that little baby – that humble baby boy – who loved the world in spite of its unbelief and ugliness. He became the shepherd and the sheep so we would have eternal life. God gifted us all with the most amazing treasure ever.
This beautiful relief carving was installed in January, 2003 at Bay Pines Lutheran School, in Bay Pines, Florida. A friend recently sent photos of it so I’m sharing it with a poem I wrote to go along with it. Paul spent many hours chiseling away at this life-sized carving of the Good Shepherd.
ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER
My Jesus is my everything, He always lives within me, He is the shepherd of my heart, He knows right where I will be, He guides, provides and leads me to, pastures clothed with morning dew, Restores my soul and gives me rest, each morning makes me brand new, When I stray far away from Him, He searches until He finds, He leads me with His gentle staff, from danger of every kind, He sets me on the narrow path, and even when death draws near, The confidence that He gives me, will take away every fear, For death will never o’er take me, He’s promised eternal life, In heavenly glory I’ll live, free from the world’s ugly strife, My head he anoints with His oil, My cup is filled to the brim, His mercy and goodness will dwell, every day I live with Him.
Today is the second Sunday in Advent. Another candle is lit on the Advent wreath. A sermon about repentance and forgiveness is spoken with passages from the Bible referring to the forerunner of Christ, John the Baptist. This was the chosen one of God who would prepare the way for the Lord, Jesus. When the angels announce Jesus’ birth to the frightened shepherds, they listen to the message of peace they bring.
So much was going on in those few days – those short hours – those times of danger, wars and rumors of the same. The sky was filled with a trillion stars, but none shone brighter than the Bethlehem Star which would lead the shepherds to their newborn Savior. Undoubtedly the stories of a Messiah were told around the evening campfire many times. Those tales had most likely been discarded and even forgotten some time ago. So many generations came and went and still the Messiah did not come. It had to be just the right moment in time – according to God’s plan – on His timeline.
In the Old Testament, we read the prophesy about the Messiah in Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” When the angels met the shepherds in the fields the angels tried to assure them, they had no reason to be afraid. In Luke 2:13-14 “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Will there ever be true peace in this world? At that moment in history, when the Son of God chose to be born as a human being, yet remained God, there was peace. Of course, it didn’t last. Jesus was born into a sinful world where wars were commonplace – a place where peace did not exist. So, as we look at this Advent Sunday let’s not lose hope. Jesus promised He would come again to the world. This time would bring eternal peace – a new heaven and earth – no sin, tears or sorrow. Jesus is our peace. We wait again anxiously for His return, but while we wait, we can hold Him in our hearts and our inner being. He will never leave us –NEVER!
Christmas lights are everywhere. In fact, they started to market them way back in August as the end of summer triggered the start of the holiday season. The call for making a buck can be annoying, but Christmas is something that should be prepared for through the Advent season. It should really carry through the entire year, but as soon as the trappings of the season are packed away, we begin to make way for the next big holiday.
I used to decorate my house, inside and out with lights, wreaths, candles, brightly colored ribbons, stockings hung by the fireplace. When the season ended, everything was boxed up and stored away for another year. Now that I’m an octogenarian, it’s become quite a chore to deck the halls with anything. I now leave the few I display up all year, so I don’t have to search for them again next year. Age has a way of sneaking up on us. The things we once put so much importance on, is no longer worth the struggle. However . . . . . there is nothing like Christmas.
There are lights all over the city. Streets are lined with them. The rays that exude from them, warm the heart and turn our thoughts to the true light of the world. This light of Jesus shouldn’t just be apparent once a year. It should stay lit every day of our existence.
Well, I caved. After giving most of my Christmas decorations away, I went to Hobby Lobby for some new stuff. It lifted my heart to put something outside again. What has become a difficult task for me, needed to be regenerated. Just like our hearts need to be ignited daily with the Light of the World.
Children stare in wonder at the ornaments and lights Each sparkle puts a twinkle in their eyes. The cookies in the oven, the tantalizing bites, The gifts of Christmas come in every size.
The special clothes and widened smiles are evidence complete, That something extra special waits right there, Beneath the tree of balsam in a box wrapped oh so sweet. It’s Christmas and the perfect time to share.
As children sing their songs to God in heaven up above, Let’s take the time to ponder what it means. That on that day of Jesus birth our greatest gift was love, A love that takes our sins away and cleans.
And so, we join their voices and with a childlike trust. We thank our Savior for His perfect life, He’s dulled death’s sting and stomped it in the dust. With Him we now can tolerate all strife.
In the late 1950s, the Christmas parade was a major event in Milwaukee. People would line the streets – row upon row. Small children would sit on the shoulders of a parent to get a better view of the many bands, floats and finally Santa Claus. The store windows were filled with animated characters and visions of sugar plums everywhere. Lights glistened as the parade began. Batons were flown into the air as the local marching bands played on. Wisconsin Avenue was the downtown of Milwaukee. We always did our Christmas shopping there. This was before all the big shopping malls popped up.
When it came to the Christmas parade, I had an advantage. Even though the winter season was already upon us, we could watch that same parade in the warmth of my grandmother’s apartment on Wisconsin Avenue. It was one of those places that you never forget.
Grandma lived in an old apartment building on the 3rd floor. I remember getting on the rickety old elevator, closing the gate which triggered the switch to engage it, and hoping we’d actually reach our destination. My grandma was a very cosmopolitan lady. She worked in a factory on an assembly line for most of the years I knew her. Her apartment always smelled like something good to eat was right around the corner. The scent of Evening in Paris cologne also filled the air. When she wasn’t at work, you could usually find her doing some kind of crafts at home. She made beautiful Christmas ornaments for each of us, along with handmade doll clothes. Her hands were always busy. I remember how classy she could be when all dolled up for a special occasion. She was a real beauty. Her thick hair was almost black – I assume she colored it. She donned a dark colored dress adorned with a string of pearls and matching earrings. Her dark, almost black eyes, would look deeply into ours and even though she never expressed her joy of being a grandmother, we always knew she loved us dearly.
Her apartment was not only the site of watching the Christmas parade, but when the Milwaukee Braves won the World Series, I brought all my friends to grandma’s place to witness the celebration in the streets from a safe location. Only a few years later, grandma would observe the race riots which altered lives in downtown Milwaukee and across the country. The large windows that looked down on the street below became a site for viewing all kinds of activity. Some memorable – some unforgettable – some things that never change.
Remembering Pearl Harbor Day is like being reminded of 9/11 and another attack on American soil. My mother’s birthday is December 8 and she remembered the day well. She was a young woman of 20 and pregnant. She and my dad were excited, yet wondered how they would support a family on such meager earnings. Only two years prior to her 18th birthday, she and my dad were married.
Now they, along with an unsuspecting nation, would wake to news that shook our country to the core. The United States had resisted entering World War II, but the events of that day, meant we could no longer be uninvolved. Japan sent waves and waves of planes across the Islands of Hawaii, bombed the American ships in Pearl Harbor and Kamikaze pilots plunged into the sea, destroying themselves along with unsuspecting sailors. Because information couldn’t be transmitted with speed – no CNN – no internet – difficult communication on all levels; it took a while before all the details were sorted out and the news reached President Roosevelt. Our nation was devastated. Our navy crushed. 2,403 dead and 1,176 wounded. Our resolve was to “Remember Pearl Harbor” as involvement in this war was inevitable. The following day, my mother turned 20. I would come into the world 6 months later.
My dad would not serve in the war because of a physical disability. They continued their lives as planned, but this interruption in their journey would forever live in their hearts and minds. Unprepared – unsuspecting – thinking we’re beyond something like this ever happening again, our country was attacked almost 60 years later by a group of terrorists.
Being unprepared leaves us wide open for vulnerability. We can never be ready enough. The same is true on a spiritual level. This is the season of repentance – a time to lay all our sins on the table and turn them over to the Savior. As we remember Pearl Harbor, let it be a constant reminder of the importance of being ready. We must be watchful, diligent and prepared in all areas of our lives – especially when it comes to eternity. Our souls are at stake.
The image of the child, Charles Dickens, is so precious. A young lad from the Victorian Period of history grew up to become a famous novelist with stories based on many of the people he interacted with throughout his young life. He was born on February 7, 1812 and died at the young age of 58. During his lifetime he was a voracious reader and writer, often using characters from his life experiences to craft his amazing works. I believe that there is a plethora of writing material obtained from our own stories. He used his short lifetime to create masterpieces of literature, including the familiar story of Scrooge and his redemption in “A Christmas Carol.”
I think the reason the story of Scrooge remains such a classic is because we can all relate to him. When three ghosts take him on his journey through time, we see a young boy growing up in the streets of London without a strong family unit. The backstory of Scrooge was a father who was bitter against him because of the death of his wife while giving birth to him. As he grew up and became obsessed with work and less involved socially, the only love he knew refused to marry him because of it. All of these negative events in his life took place during the Christmas season.
That may be the way it is for us too. We work twice as hard to make ends meet. Our focus becomes so narrow that the joy of Christmas is often lost in our own needs and desires. Many people get depressed during the holidays. In the story, Scrooge simply snuffed the ghost out with his hat, but it’s not always that easy to get rid of the things that bring us down. You may be going through some financial problems right now. You may have a marriage in need of repair. You might be overwhelmed by a disease that has sealed your last days. Whatever you are going through at this time of the year, it seems to be magnified so much by all that is happening during a season that should be filled with joy.
When Scrooge wakes on Christmas morning, his whole attitude is changed. Was it because he was fearful of dying? Was it because he realized the truth of Christmas and the wonderful news of having a second chance? We all have that same opportunity. We have been gifted with a most amazing treasure which doesn’t cost us a cent. The Savior of the world, Jesus.
Dear Savior, help all those whose hearts are heavy at this time of year. Allow them to realize that you love them with the greatest love ever known and you invite them into your arms each day. Thank you also for Christmases past. They can teach us so much about ourselves. Amen!
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
Nazareth was an insignificant small-town set in the hill country just a few miles from the Sea of Galilee. It had a population of about 400 people who were mostly Jewish in heritage. Everyone knew everyone else. Any news would travel fast in this little village. The Hebrew word for Nazareth means “”branch.” This could relate to the prophesy in Isaiah 11:1 “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” The story of our Savior begins in this town. Through angelic visits, Mary would receive the news about her immaculate conception. Her betrothed husband, Joseph, would also be approached by an angel in a dream. The angel assured Joseph that Mary’s child would be from God. It had to take a lot of faith, trust and courage for him to believe this, but he did.
Joseph was a carpenter by trade. His hands were likely rough from chiseling away at a piece of wood or stone all day, but they were also strong from handling those materials. Some suggest that he was a skilled stone craftsman as well since wood wasn’t in great abundance. In any event, he was considered an artist. He taught his stepson, Jesus, the trade as they worked together in those early years.
Joseph was used to working hard. He probably had been doing it since he was a boy himself. Things were going well for him. He was engaged to a young woman; he had a trade; he was a man on the move. Life was good. Then something happened that would change his life forever. The angel of the Lord appeared to this average “Joe” with an announcement that would change the course of history. Like Mary, he accepted what the angel told him with a heart of faith even though the whole idea was incomprehensible to him.
There are so many times in our lives that we feel secure and then something happens to completely throw us off guard. I pray that I could have even an ounce of the faith that Mary and Joseph displayed when being confronted with such shocking news. Joseph could’ve walked away from Mary and follow the Jewish law which stated he could divorce her from their marriage contract, but that would mean that she would likely be stoned to death. His love for Mary kept him on the right path. His confrontation by the angel sealed the deal. He would take on the role of stepfather as was directed by God Himself.
God, give me strength in the knowledge that you control my life and thus give me peace because I know you are the best one to be in charge.
This time of year is filled with lights of all kinds – festive events – beautiful choral music – gifts – anticipation – excitement – stories – and angels. The Bible talks about angels being present from the beginning of time. These servants of God had all sorts of jobs to do. They weren’t just delegated to a cloud where they would sing all day long. I guess that’s what it must be like in heaven. I’ll find out when I get there, but I imagine that God has a purpose for each one of us in heaven, just as He has outlined our lives here on earth.
Getting back to angels – there was one who made a name for himself when he appeared to the virgin, Mary. He was to deliver a message that would change her life forever. Not only her life, but those of every human being to inhabit the world. A young woman, who was already pledged to Joseph, would become pregnant with the Son of God. Imagine all the thoughts that ran through her mind after getting this news. She had a lot of explaining to do. First to her family – then to her future husband – and finally to the community she lived in. Being pregnant before marriage was frowned upon. For her to say that she became pregnant without intercourse, was also questionable. Tongues would wag as this girl would be called upon to explain her condition. Her “good news” from Gabriel would put her in a very awkward position.
Gabriel had been bringing messages for some time. In fact, Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, who was deemed barren, would be told by him that she would conceive and bear a child in her advanced age. Her husband didn’t believe her. Elizabeth even laughed it off. Gabriel knew better. The news of her pregnancy came before Mary’s, but it was all part of the salvation plan God had prepared for the world. When Elizabeth and Zechariah welcomed their son, John into the world, they knew that this was God’s doing. John would become the forerunner of his relative, Jesus and prepared the way for Him.
Do angels exist? I believe they do. The Bible has a lot to say about them. Satan was once an angel, but he didn’t like taking a back seat to God. I’ve witnessed many angels in my lifetime as “people” who have been placed there by God. Especially in times of suffering, anxiety or great need, God always provides them to watch over us.
At the time when Gabriel made these important visits, the world was in much the same situation as it is today. It was darkened by the shadow of sin. It was polluted by immorality. The nation of Israel was under Roman rule. The political climate was fierce. It was on a road to hell and destruction. All of this prompted God to make such a time as this, the perfect time to send a Savior to the world. Jesus, His own Son, carried by a virgin who trusted God completely, even though her reputation had been put on the line. She confidently prayed to her Heavenly Father these words.
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessedfor he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate;he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” Luke 1:46-55
As I reach the end of my years, I find I have a lot of good information stored up in this old decrepit mind of mine. If I don't write it all down, it may vanish and no one will have the advantage of my thoughts. This is why this blog exists. I love the Lord, Jesus with all my heart and soul. I know I'm undeserving of all He's done for me, but I also know that His love is beyond my comprehension.
I've always wanted to write. I never kept diaries, but tucked my thoughts in my head for future reference. I use them now in creating stories, plays, poetry and my blog.
I continue to learn every day. I believe the compilation of our time spent with God will have huge affect on the way we live. I know I'm a sinner and I need a Savior. I have One through Jesus, Christ.
My book, "Stages - a memoir," is about the seven stages of life from the perspective of a woman. It addresses all the things girls and women go through in life as they travel it with Jesus, and it is available on Amazon.com.
Life is a patchwork of moments — laughter, solitude, everyday joys, and quiet aches. Through scribbled stories, I explore travels both far and inward, from sunrise over unfamiliar streets to the comfort of home. This is life as I see it, captured in ink and memory. Stick around; let's wander together.
God's amazing grace removes walls and replaces those barriers with Jesus, freedom from sin's consequences, freedom to forgive, and freedom to love unconditionally.
atimetoshare.me 
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