Under Christmas Stars

I stand in the yard on Christmas night in the cool breeze underneath the bright stars. The candlelight services the night before, the family opening presents together this morning, the afternoon dinner prepared by loving hands, are all pleasant memories of this precious holiday. Inside, the joyful family celebration continues as laughter and music drift from the windows lit with warmth and love.

I think about the beauty of the night sky and the splendor of infinity it represents.

I think about pregnant Mary and loyal Joseph’s arduous trip to Bethlehem made two thousand years ago. I wonder what they thought of the astral celebration arrayed above them that holy night. I feel a connection to that young couple and to all the people since, all looking upward as I am this Christmas night.

I think about the warm souls and Holy Spirit that met in the sanctuary last night. I remember singing Silent Night with the choir, while members and newcomers withdraw after the service with smiles and hugs. Small candles held by solemn and excited children are lit at the door, casting golden, flickering light on the sidewalk and faces. I know the children will remember this moment, holding up their candle to be lit from the flame of the Christ candle, just as I think about my own childhood’s Christmas celebrations, memories that run together in a warm flow of sweet memories.

I marvel at my fortunate circumstances and feel gratefulness to God for everything that’s happened to me. I smile toward the house and give thanks to heaven. I pray that my descendants will feel the joy I feel tonight, passed down through family and friends, and ultimately from our God.

The world is connected through a intricate and far-reaching sequence of events and relationships, each shaping the physical and spiritual worlds of its inhabitants. I feel comforted that above it all, God is ruler still. Tonight, I celebrate the love of God for his children and the great gift of our salvation.

Merry Christmas, everyone.