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Is that how we picture him? A blanket covered bundle held securely in Mary's arms, usually looking more like a lump than a baby? Is he just an image wrapped up as neatly as a package, sleeping peacefully? Perhaps we must delve beyond that, to the wise child who taught the teachers in the synagogue, the loving man who hung out with rejects, or the chosen Messiah who hung in misery on the cross while forgiving those responsible. Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of our Messiah, Jesus the Christ. Never mind that he was probably born in the spring, this is our set time of observance. And the timing is not important. What matters is how we observe. Are the priorities to get all the extravagant shopping finished, decorate the house more impressively than the neighbors and go sing a favorite Christmas carol or two on the Sunday closest to December 25th? Or are we telling everyone we know that this is Christ's season, that we are celebrating him? Are we including Jesus on our Christmas list? Among all the toys and gadgets we purchase, baking and decking the halls, is there room for him in our hearts? Can we think beyond the helpless, innocent baby born and remember the powerful, compassionate Christ who set the example for us to live? The Christ-child was just the beginning of God's gift to us. A gift that meant giving up his only child that we might all become his children. A gift that he has been giving over and over for thousands of years to all who celebrate him with their lives. Just a few questions and thoughts to ponder as you send out your Christmas cards this year.

"'Winging It" from Stan Smith

Washed by the Water of the Word

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