Listen

The Word became flesh and made his home among us.

We have seen his glory, glory like that of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

John 1:14

Think

Charlie Brown: Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?

Linus: Sure, Charlie Brown. I can tell you what Christmas is all about. Lights, please!

from A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

So begins my favorite telling of the Christmas story ever. In the film, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Linus helps Charlie Brown and their friends understand the true meaning of Christmas. On a stage, under a spotlight, Linus sweetly recites Luke 2:8-14 (KJV). Somehow, it doesn’t quite feel like Christmas until I hear him share those words.

We may not be facing the same troubles as Charlie Brown, but it can be hard amidst all the distractions in our world to grasp “what Christmas is all about.”

Today is about the greatest gift of all. Not a gift under a tree, but a baby born in a manger. Today we celebrate the Word becoming flesh and bringing glory, grace, and truth into the world that needs all three. Take time today to reflect on what this means, for each of us.

Merry Christmas!

Ryan Wilson

Pray

God who made a home among us, on this day of love, hope, peace, and joy, help me to know the true meaning of Christmas. Thank you for the greatest gift of all, a savior born to us this day. Amen.

Go

Christmas highlights the belief that God is in all of us. We can ignore that, or we can help God be found in all of us. God is active through each of us for each other.

from Sacred Space: The Prayer Book 2012, The Irish Jesuits