Moments in Bethlehem

We are finding that even in the midst of our grieving, life goes on.  Especially during the Christmas season.  There has been somewhat of a disconnect these past weeks.  When we surface, however briefly, from the details surrounding the funeral and its aftermath, we are bombarded by "joyous good tidings," ringing bells, and jolly Santas.  Very disconcerting to say the least! 

And yet, this has always been a season our family dove into with delight.  This year, mom had her tree up and the house decorated weeks before Thanksgiving.  I believe she knew her time was dwindling.  Whether she decorated for us, fearing we'd be too grieved to celebrate, or whether she decorated for the pure joy of basking in the beauty we will never know.  Perhaps it was a bit of both.  As a family, we've determined to carry on with "sacred" traditions.  Dad wants everyone at the house Christmas day, and we will feast, and laugh and cry together because, well, because we will.

But this Christmas feels different.

Tonight Katie and I went to the Living Nativity performance at church.  There was much anticipation as the crowd milled around, aromas of hay mingling with the earthy perfume of sheep and camel.  As the choir began to sing, a hush fell, and for the next 40 minutes we were transported back to hills of Bethlehem.

The aching familiarity of the Christmas story eased the cords of sorrow in my heart.  A simple, church pageant.  Children waved to parents from the stage, giggling when memorized lines were forgotten, donkeys brayed during solos and shepherds tripped over their robes, but the message was a thread of love reaching back 2,000 years.  The story never changes.  The message is love.

For God so loved the world

that He gave His one and only Son,

that whoever believes in Him shall not perish,

but have eternal life.

                    ~John 3:16

A baby born to save the world.  A baby born to die...

A Savior who is no stranger to grief.  Why had I never realized that at Christmas before?  It is not a story reserved for Easter alone.  As God looked down on that Holy Night in Bethlehem, He saw the plan for redemption shadowing a simple manger.

This baby, His Son, was born to die. 

Love so amazing, I can never comprehend.  Only bow my heart in praise.

Moments in Bethlehem

Mom would have been delighted with the performance! Braying donkeys, smelly sheep and all!  My heart is lighter than it has been in days.  And Katie took advantage, adding one more thing to her Christmas wish list:

Her name is Blue and she's a miniature Brahma.  Katie fell in love and wants one.  Hello?!  Just how happy do I look?!  Don't you bat your pretty little eyes at me!  Either one of you!