The Final Blog of the Twelve Days of Christmas
DAY TWELVE
It’s the day after Christmas, a day for doing other things. Will there be shopping? Probably, but for different reasons. I’ll reflect on the season and think about the time spent with family and friends, I’ll think about the cards, gifts, and events.
I’ll think about our Candlelight service. The carols were beautiful, the Spirit was generous, and the hundreds of candles lifted up for the infant king moved me deeply.
I’ll remember Christmas morning, with the fireplace crackling and all the fabulously wrapped presents. But, mostly I’ll think about the people who gathered around the tree.
I love Christmas.
REGARDING HIS PARENTS
Joseph and Mary had a hard trip to Bethlehem, but they made it, for the child could only be born in Bethlehem. I’ve imagined them out in the cold stable with the animals. The stable wasn’t where they wanted to be, but it was where they were.
It was a night divine, a silent night, a holy night.
I’ve considered Herod trying to eliminate the infant king. Mary and Jospeh escaped to Egypt, but other people’s sons were murdered in Herod’s death sweep. Did Mary know them, did she experience overwhelming sorrow, grief, and guilt?
Mary and Jospeh, you were such good parents. Thank you for protecting him.
It’s largely because of you that we have a Christmas to celebrate!
TO CLOSE
Christmas means different things. For some, it’s a holiday with a few days off work. For others, it’s the most wonderful time of the year with lights, decorations and events. Maybe the magic of Christmas is the time with family and friends. It’s all good.
But, in the beginning, Christmas was about God coming near to help us. So, when I say, “Merry Christmas” what I’m really saying is:
“May the God of grace fill your hearts in the celebration of his Son’s birth.
Until Next Year,”The Twelve Days of Christmas” are finished.
May the peace of the Prince of Peace be upon you.