Thursday nights are a big night for me. It is my night to keep Sam happy and
healthy until his grandma and mama come home…
The other night Sam and I went out into the dark to play in the
backyard. He messed around with his truck for a while and then we played “catch
me if you can.” After a few chases
around the yard he began walking off into the dark. Of course I followed him –
remember I’m responsible for these few hours…
He headed down the long driveway, out to the road, and straight to the
mailbox. He checked out both the mailbox and the box that holds the newspaper.
Both were empty. And then he was ready to head back into the yard. I’m only
able to spend a couple of nights a week with Sam – but this little journey told
me a bit about what he does each night. Or at least likes to do.
I’m guessing that several evenings a week, Sam and Grandma walk out
together to get the mail and the paper. So on this night, he was off to do what
he usually does. His “tradition” got me thinking…
When it comes to tradition, is there any other time of year that rivals
Christmas? The shopping while still
filled with Thanksgiving turkey, the hunt for a perfect tree, the decorating,
the caroling, holiday parties and gatherings, gift wrapping, giving, and
opening; on and on it goes. Our home has its traditions – how about yours?
On the eve of this season, I want to encourage you. Sam’s and my trip to the mailbox turned up
empty, but a trip to the manger never does.
Look! The virgin will conceive a
child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means
‘God is with us’). Isaiah 7:14
The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the
Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will
recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of
cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of
others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest
heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
When the angels had returned to
heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see
this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried
to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the
manger. Luke 2:11-16
“This child is destined to cause
many in Israel to fall, but he will be a joy to many others. He has been sent
as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts
of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” Luke 2:34-35
You’ve done it before – do it again – go to the manger and let the love
of God fill your hearts this Christmas season!
J
Celebrating the Gift again,
Ron
