INNOCENCE OF BIRTH

Jesus' birth was the beginning of a new family. It marked the consummation of vows of faithfulness of Mary and Joseph to each other and to God. It marked the beginning of an innocent life.

We are reminded of the responsibilities of parents to bring up their children in the safety and admonition of the Lord. We realize once more how precious life is. We long for that innocence of a newborn babe.

God chose his son, Jesus, to come to earth to experience this earthy life from beginning to end. He had to be taught to talk and walk as a human being. He had to build a body to withstand the trials and temptations we all have had to face.

This time of year we remember and envy the innocence and vulnerability of a baby. How dependent we are on other people. As in birth, we find in death our vulnerability to this human form we call our bodies. How we must depend on God to, …grant us with a willing spirit to sustain us. (Psalm 51:12b) my paraphrase).

MOM'S LAST CHRISTMAS GIFT

     Christmas was my mom's favorite time of year. She gave to each family member: Aunts, Uncles, nieces, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, she even gave to friends and their family who couldn't give back.

     Her last days on earth, she was given a Christmas gift she didn't wear. My aunt had given her a nice, pink robe because mom was ill. She had not worn it three days after Christmas when she died December 27, 1969.

     I remember my aunt asked to return the robe.  I remember it was a curious request, but did not jump to judgment. Years later I realized the two women's viewpoint. They were from the "Great Depression" era. They were frugal. "Waste not, want not," was evident in their decisions.

     Mom knew the thought behind the gift was genuine love. She loved back through a last gesture of frugality.

     I see this same quality in her grandchildren as they have grown. They love to shop. They love to give, even when the recipients can't return the favor. Praise The Lord for a giving family.

 …."It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35) NIV