“Unto us a child is born…” Isaiah 9:6

Over the years I have enjoyed being Santa’s helper at the different parsonages where we have lived. Usually, a room would be designated as Santa’s workshop; the door would be locked, and various projects would be underway. There were lots of little fingerprints on the door, and letters to Santa would slide through the space beneath it. Our children and grandchildren have done a lot of Christmas wondering at that door.

These days all doors stay open, and we wonder where time has gone. Pat and I walk down toy isles in the store and pass by little dolls and trucks. We look at all the modern electronic stuff and feel helpless when it comes to gift buying.

Children grow up quickly, we all know. The Santa of Christmas seems to change with them; as he should; but I am thankful that the Christ of Christmas is unchanging. My prayer is that our children and grandchildren will always leave their fingerprints on both sides of the church door. And I pray that they will never lose the wonder of the true meaning of Christmas.

I have found the church to be the Lord’s workshop. Who can count the prayers that (like letters under the door) have been lifted to God? Today I give thanks for all His helpers who teach, sing, clean, repair, give us music, preach, and do a thousand more task to ensure that our growing children will never forget that the baby Jesus grew up too.

I imagine that as Mary stood by the cross, she could have wished for Bethlehem days again. Little children around the Christmas tree and in church are brief. God bless all who love them and help them love the Lord. And to all of you who are trying to put this year’s Christmas programs together in your various churches: God’s special blessings upon you. There are children who will never forget what you have done.

“A mother laid her baby
in manger lined with straw;
then, in the shepherds’ story,
his call from God foresaw.
She nurtured him and taught him
the way that he must live.
God’s people had a savior.
She had such love to give.”