“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.”  Galatians 4:4

Christmas Past

I remember Christmases past with fuzzy, fond memories. Remember the tree lights in which if one light was out, none of them worked? One long ago experience was going to see the big windows of the major department stores decorated and animated in holiday scenes. And folks actually went Christmas caroling back in the day. We gave gifts to mailmen and teachers and newspaper boys and school teachers. These usually consisted of a variety of Christmas cookies, breads, and cakes made over days of baking that filled our home with such wonderful aromas. In the evening we sat in front of our little black and white TV and alternately strung popcorn and cranberries to wrap around the tree. My mother spent hours on her Christmas cards.  Each card contained a handwritten note and was personally signed. We made snow ice cream and ate it until we were chilled to the bone.  We put out cookies and milk on Christmas Eve for Santa to enjoy when he came and they were always gone next morning. This was sure evidence that he had truly been there. I remember lying snug in my bed thinking I would never drop off to sleep from my excitement and anticipation.

We were of humble means in those long ago days, but through my little girl eyes Christmas was a magical extravaganza. I clearly recollect hearing from my cousins that there was not really a Santa Claus. I was shocked! I was stunned because it hit me like a thunderbolt that if there was no Santa, then my parents supplied all those toys, gifts, surprises, and wonders. I was old enough to know we were not well off and knew that this display of delights came at a sacrifice. The thought exploded in my heart and in my mind. See how much they love us! And in that knowledge and assurance, Christmas became all the more magnificent.

My parents became a parable to me of God’s own love. Later in life I came to know the source of all that love, that willingness to sacrifice. It is God’s own Son, the greatest gift of all. See how much He loves us! The Giver gave Himself to redeem us from our poverty and bondage, so that we might become sons and daughters. Merry Christmas indeed!

Father, You are the heart of the story! How generous and full of beauty is Your love. You take our breath away and fill our hearts with wonder anew. Blessed is Your name. Amen.