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Topic: EMBARRASS(ED) (11/03/16)
- TITLE: The View | Previous Challenge Entry
By Janet Murphy
11/08/16 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
I admit, I absolutely love Christmas; everything about it. The music, the stories, lights, decorations, surprises and I just have to wear those jingly bell socks! However, in celebration of thirty plus years of marriage and the perfected art of compromise, I draw the line at the elf socks that have the bells so as to not to completely mortify my husband.
The finishing touches on the decorating are done. I sit at my computer and realize that I’ve re-arranged the three kings and the shepherd several times during my Christmas letter writing to assure they have the right view to “see” the Baby.
The Nativity set that I love the most is not the most expensive. At first glance, some may even be uncomfortable with my pride in the Woolworth’s set. There is an original price tag on the bottom of one of the kings – Woolworth 10 cents. It is not the most expressive Nativity. In fact, the shepherd looks a little dazed. I guess I would too if part of my nose was gone! But to me, it is more beautiful than any porcelain and gold Nativity money could ever buy. I am rich in memories in having my Woolworth’s set from first grade.
Each year, each time I look upon these twelve pieces, I see more than the memory of the miracle. I celebrate with thanks as each piece has come to represent my life, past and present. The angel speaks to me of surprises. Joseph teaches me honor. Mary teaches me trust. The kings teach me persistence, reverence and humility. Even the animals teach me contentment.
And so as I re-arrange the kings again, my heart checks my view of “The Baby.” What is my focus at Christmas? What do I give as well as I receive? What have I learned from the gift of another year?
Every day I receive so much; I can’t come up with one word or phrase. Jesus gives me joyful-gifts, strugglesome-growing gifts, privilege, power and promise gifts. Hopefilled-gifts. Choice-and-consequence gifts. Shining-blinding-illuminating gifts.
Come to think about it, I want to be like that dazed shepherd at Christmas. I want my spirit’s countenance to always be mystified by the miracle of His love. I want my gifts to bring Him honor warm and real like the lamb upon a shepherd’s shoulder.
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