And Days Before Christmas . . .

Believe it or not, Christmas is upon us. I don't know about you, but this year I notice that time is flying by! Heck! It was November 15th before I finally turned my calendar from October to November. The hours slip into days into weeks and into months and before we can say Jingle Bells, Christmas is here!

My husband, Mike and I were invited to attend a Christmas Program last night. Two of our grandchildren were in it. Jack who was a "truth teller" in the play. And Alice would be an angel. Of course, these were both so fitting! We were very proud of both of them. The play was a success!

I loved the glittery halos that the preschoolers wore. The lights above caused them to dance upon their little heads. Some of their faces glowed with excitement. While others seemed anxious, intimidated by the sea of parents and grandparents in front of them. A leader had a grip on a youngster who was trying to escape. While yet another child was returning to stage, presumably at the direction of a parent. I'm sure Jesus was smiling upon each one and giving them the courage they needed to be sharing His story.

And then came the play by the older children. Most were so excited to be on stage. I watched as an older boy gave a stern look to a younger one. I'm not sure what that was about but I chuckled quietly at their innocence. There was so much energy in the place that one could have lit the church afire. Happy faces. Bouncing feet. Dancing eyes. The wonder of Christmas filled the air!

My eyes were drawn to a little girl in the front. Maybe because she stood near Jack. Maybe because I had such a limited view from my seat. But Her pretty red, sequenced dress sparkled in the lights. At times she seemed tired and would let out a long yawn. It was, after all, past dinner time. She fidgeted with her dress. I wondered if she felt like a princess as she sang her heart out.

But it was during the song; "O Come all Ye Faithful" that I was sure Jesus would be blessed. My eyes once again landed upon that precious child in the pretty red dress. For as she sang, she closed her eyes. Then I watched as her tiny hands folded in front of her. She continued in that most holy place until the song was over. My heart - now full.

Dear Lord, please return us to the place of awesome wonder. May we be like little children, innocent, pure, and delightful when we come into your Presence. And may we be ready to bow before you when we find ourselves standing on holy ground. In your precious name, Jesus', we pray. Amen.