Looking Down Where He...?

     There they were. Mary and Joseph in one of the most striking poses I'd seen. Joseph had his calloused hands folded gently across one knee while Mary's lay softly across her breast. Both were gazing with the love of new parents down into the hay. But something was wrong with the rest of the picture! I confess it took me a couple of glances to figure it out.

     In order to get a point across someone had arranged the figurines of the Nativity set as if Mary and Joseph were looking at baby Jesus in the manger, but instead of a manger at their feet there were things that are adored in our day. Tools for dad, a doll for daughter , a silver platter for mom, and a toy truck for son. A rubber duck and a Teddy bear had been thrown in for good measure. And scattered all around were brightly colored ribbons and the paper in which everything had been wrapped.

     The photographer had done a good job! The scene reminded me that all to often we try to celebrate Christmas without giving much thought to Christ. Instead, if we aren't careful, we transfer our desires to the material gifts we're hoping to receive. To be honest, there's still a lot of kid in me. I like unwrapping presents and watching others do the same. I enjoy surprises and gadgets and an occasional new shirt, too. But oh, how I would not like to forget what Christmas day is all about! Let's choose now to not permit our December schedules to keep us from enjoying special opportunities that come at this time of year which can help us grow in our love for God's gift to all the world...the Christ of Christmas!

Note* This page is continued in loving memory of Pastor Sigler who passed away in April 2002.*

Graphics on this page are from:

Dana's Christian Graphics