As Christmas Eve approaches I pray for a peaceful and simple couple of days.
When people share their most special memories of Christmas, it is not about the expensive gifts, pressed linen tablecloths, glitter, chocolate, or shopping.
I hear about the childhood memory of visiting the family farm. Laying on the floor in front of a roaring fire with a couple of hound dogs. Falling asleep in front of the fire and waking up in a feather bed in a very cold room of the house.
I hear about the Christmas stocking with an orange, a pack of chewing gum, some English walnuts.
I hear about a grandpa telling late night stories, and early morning squirrel or pheasant hunts (with the same dogs). It is milking the cows, because they don’t take Christmas off. It is the smell of homemade bread or a pie coming out of the oven. It is singing, and candle light.
Our best memories are the simple ones. They are not cluttered and remain clear and comforting. All is calm, all is bright. Let us rejoice and take comfort in family time and the simple things that bring joy during this season.
Jesus’ birthplace was a simple manger. There were no inflatable snowmen, wire cage reindeer or LED lights. He brought the light, the one we need most.
The wise men and the presents didn’t show up until later. There was a lot of political stuff going on between birth and gifts. But, I would like to believe the night and the next day were simple, peaceful, calm. No one knew how important the event was. There was not press release. It was a night and a day without cell phones, oven timers, meal production schedules, wrapping paper, and credit card bills. We have come to believe it has to be complex and each detail well planned.
Redemption is a simple idea. In my mind it is the most important thing about Christianity. It is the most important reason for celebrating Christmas. Our redeemer has come.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.
