Merry Christmas

We decorate the Christmas tree

With lights that shine so bright

To represent the stars above

Upon that Holy Night

When One was born to save the world

And take away the sin

Of all who call upon His name

And are reborn within.

The ornaments upon the tree

Are gifts to Him above;

They are a simple token

Of hearts filled with love.

Underneath the tree are gifts

Exchanged with family;

Symbolic of the precious gift

He gave to you and me

Of life eternal in a place

Beyond imagining;

A place of peace, filled with love

Where choirs of angels sing.

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.  This will be a sign to you:  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'" -- Luke 2:8-12

Death and Rebirth

You never know what you might stumble across when walking out in the woods.  I wasn't sure whether it was one of the reindeer, or maybe the Devil that met his end right here before Christmas.  I'm not sure why, but it seemed like an appropriate post for Christmas Eve.  Perhaps it is that the birth of Jesus was the introduction of a New Covenant between God and His people.  The skull, in a way, represents the death of the old which leads to the birth of the new.

I've never really thought of Christmas in that way before, but when I think of the excitement on children's faces as they race to see what is under the tree I reflect on what our attitude should be upon discovering the true gift of Christmas, a Savior, sent to the world to open a pathway for those who believe.  Christmas isn't just a commemoration of the birth of Jesus, it represents the opportunity for all of us to be reborn -- to die to the old and live life for the new -- to die to our sinful nature and be born again into a life guided by love.

I was unable to post yesterday due to trying to cram too many things into a day.  I likely won't post anything tomorrow as it will be spent focusing on family and the reason we celebrate.  I hope that will be your focus as well.

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." -- Luke 2:14

The Power of Christmas

At the center of Christmas is a child.

That child grew into a man who changed the world.

That he was more than just a man

Is the center of a faith

Necessary

For that change.

It is not in an institution,

But, in the power of God

That transcends this world.

"For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'" -- Romans 1:17

Discounted Normalcy

It seems each morning, about this time, I hear the whistle of the trains as they pass through town -- the low rumble of the wheels on the track, pierced by short bursts of the horn at each crossing.  The freight rolls on.

Yesterday, Christmas Day, we made a quick trip into the DFW Metroplex for a day with my wife's family.  Traffic was light on our way there, except for the trucks plying the Interstate with more freight rolling to its destination.

The wheels of commerce never cease.  If they were to do so we would be at a loss as to how to live.  We, in general, have lost most of our survival skills -- or, they have morphed into something our ancestors wouldn't recognize.  They have become feral in some ways as we seek to avoid, or to defend against the predators that come with overcrowding and concentration into population centers -- the very centers that survive only by the freight that plies our highways and railroads and, although not especially familiar to me, waterways.

Today will be one in which many of the gifts of yesterday will be returned for credit, only to be exchanged for something just as useless.  There is an obsession with the material that is part of the acquisitive nature of every person.  Perhaps, in some sense of irony, the exchanges will result in a multiplication of items because the post-Christmas sales offer huge discounts, so the credit of the pre-Christmas purchase is multiplied upon return.  Maybe the best gift for a materialist is one they don't desire because they can exchange it now for two of something they had hoped to acquire.

Already, the minimal nod to the "reason for the season" has faded into the normal hustle and bustle of life.

Some of us are merely "lost" because we don't know what to do until the return of normalcy.  I wonder, will it be multiplied due to the discounted value?

Christmas

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Luke 2:8-20

Family Time at Christmas

For the last couple of days we have celebrated Christmas with family.  Our kids were home, though briefly, and not at the same time.  It has been a good couple of days with the sounds of laughter and happy activity, lots of good food and time together.

One of the things that sticks in my mind is the look of sheer joy on the younger kids faces when they crossed the creek in the Polaris Ranger -- their father driving and mother keeping them corralled.  I was the "gate man" and therefore able to watch their faces as they made the quick crossing, yelling and laughing.  There was no water in the bottom, but it was muddy and the sides are steep.  I wish I had thought to pull out the camera on my phone to capture the moment.

Saturday, we had a special meal prepared by my son.  It was his gift to us and a very special one.  He and his girlfriend visited on Saturday.  There were games of cards and dominoes and checking cows and visiting.  It was a long hard trip for a very short time for them, but we appreciated it greatly.

Sunday was filled with my daughter and her family.  Little children always add to the joy of Christmas.  Their excitement and laughter are contagious.  I know their parents sometimes worry about the noise and activity, but children playing is good for this old guy's soul.

We have also had my in-laws and a visit yesterday from my wife's sister.  We will be at her house on Christmas Day.

Once again we are reminded that Christmas is a time for family.  On this Christmas Eve, I hope you are blessed with the presence of those you love.  I regret that we won't be able to see my mother and siblings this Christmas, but I hope they know we would like to be there.

"While they were there the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to their first-born, a son.  She wrapped him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." -- Luke 2:6-7

Travel and Christmas

There were many times through the years that we would leave work on a Friday and drive 6, 8 or, even 10 hours to one of our parents home for the Christmas holidays.  Sometimes it would be a "quick" trip that allowed for only a day or two at one house and then it was another drive to the next family Christmas with the other side of the family.  There were also the expected gatherings at a grandparent's house -- or, sometimes a couple of them.

Holidays can be hectic.  Marriage brings with it the need to meet obligations on both sides.  Everyone is understanding (usually), but it can be crazy trying to manage all of the places where you want to be or, need to be, or sometimes, are expected to be.

Children make it even more challenging.  It is important that they get to spend time with extended family, but the logistics of hauling all of the paraphernalia needed for a baby and then later as the kids grow and the family expands, it sometimes is difficult to get everything packed into the limited space of a vehicle for the trip.  The bigger the family, the number of gifts grows until it becomes a nightmare for some.  Who needs clothes, right?

At some point in most young families life, a decision is made that Christmas will be at home, with just immediate family.  It is a hard transition for some, but a necessary one.  It is part of the growth in independence and self-sufficiency.

It is good to maintain the extended family contact, but sometimes it is more important to maintain immediate family sanity.  Sometimes we need to slow down and remember the reason we celebrate Christmas.

We have reached a point in our journey where we are waiting up until the "wee hours" for kids who are traveling to spend a brief day with us before heading back to other obligations.  We are thankful for that time.  We covet that time, but we also know it is hard on them.

As we enter these final days before Christmas, be mindful of the needs of others.  Be thankful for what you have.  Remember the reason for the season.

"So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.  He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child."  -- Luke 2:4-5

Handmade Ornaments

Many years ago when the kids were young and so was I, we lived in Nebraska.  Our place sat up on a hill overlooking the Republican River Valley.  It was a scenic and rural location where we often saw wildlife in the corn stubble across the road which lay between us and the river.

We were on the great Central Flyway which is annually traversed by millions of geese and Sandhill Cranes on their migration to warmer climates.  The geese attract Bald Eagles which we used to count whenever we drove along Interstate 80 which parallels the Platte River.  We even had one in our yard one morning.

One of the things I miss about that place was the shop building.  It had a fabulous metal shop building that we enjoyed greatly.  I had a few woodworking tools and we set up an area in which we would build things.  It was great for the kids to learn some of the basics of using the tools and of creating things.

One Christmas we made wooden cutout Christmas ornaments.  We also made a small Christmas Village out of old fence pickets.  I did the cutting, the kids did the wood burning and painting.  Each year some of those items still find their way onto our Christmas tree.

It seems that most of us become fixated on finding the perfect gift for someone.  If we can't decide what to buy, we get them a gift card so they can choose for themselves.  We spend far too much time and money on such things.  It is difficult to recall those gifts.

But, the handmade items that are kept from year-to-year are special.  They find more than a place in our home, they find a place in our heart.

Reasons for the Busy-ness

The month of December always seems to be one of the busiest of the year. Work goes on as always, but added to that are additional items in preparation for the end of a year, plans for a new one (business) and the inevitable Christmas parties and shopping.  If you still have young children, or grandchildren there are programs to attend.  Church Christmas programs also mean extra rehearsals for those involved.

I like the busy-ness of the season, but it often adds to the level of stress for many.  Fortunately, I'm not usually especially stressed.  I realized long ago that I can't do it all and therefore I don't worry so much about what doesn't get done; I know it will all work out.

The stress of the season is not a good thing.  It takes away from the meaning of Christmas.  We should be focused on family and friends and most of all, the reason we celebrate in the first place -- Jesus.  In spite of what the world would try and push on us otherwise, Christmas should be all about the gift of Jesus.

As you go about your busy-ness this year, remember the reason we celebrate.

Dunny Saves Christmas!

Sammy Kershaw did the song "Up on the Housetop."  I have modified it for a Cowboy version of the song.

Out by the Barn

Out by the barn the horses pause

'Cause here comes good old Santa Claus

Draggin' his reins and makin' noise

But, no sight of sled all filled with toys!

Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?  Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?



Reindeer antlers go click, click, click

Now, Santa's afoot and lookin' sick.

It seems he was flyin' across the sky

Makin' his rounds and feelin' spry

When along comes a big ol' jumbo jet

It spooked ol' Comet, he's runnin' yet!

Ho Ho, Ho, how could he know?  Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?

Reindeer antlers go click, click, click

Now, Santa's afoot and lookin' sick.

So, he saddled ol' Dunny with a borrowed rig

Who was feelin' his oats and dancin' a jig.

Then he headed south, a sleigh to catch

Hopin' ol' Comet had met his match!

Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?  Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?

Reindeer antlers go click, click, click

No longer afoot, Santa's on the stick.

Over the hill with ears layed back

They spot that sleigh just layin' a track!

With Dunny a flyin' the loop he lay,

Dallied his rope and stopped that sleigh!

Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?  Ho, Ho, Ho, how could he know?

Reindeer antlers go click, click, click

Christmas is saved by Santa's rope trick.

The Perfect Christmas Gift

Shopping is not something that I do well.  Buying, yes.  Shopping, no.

If I know what I need and intend to buy it, I go do so.  I hate going and looking without knowing what it is that I am looking for.  You know, that perfect gift for someone who really doesn't give you any clues about what they want.

I'm never satisfied.  I find something and think, no, surely I can do better.  I agonize over it.  I second guess.  I procrastinate thinking that I will receive some revelation.  Arrrrghhh!

Why do I do this to myself???!!

But, when it comes to what I want for Christmas it's easy.  I just want some small something simple or, honestly, I'm happy with nothing at all as long as everyone else gets what they want.  But, if you have to get me something, a book is always good.  Or, a shirt.  Maybe some new guitar strings.  Or, best yet, something homemade.  Hmmmm.....that's about it.

But, the best gift is for family to be together.

Some of the best memories are going to Grandma and Grandpas's for Christmas.  We would play dominoes or Spades half the night.  Sometimes the guitars would come out and we would sing.  The house was always full and the smell of Grandma's cooking would fill the air.  The kids would run wild and Grandpa would get onto them.  But, best of all, was Grandpa, like a kid, anxious for the Christmas Eve gift exchange.  The kids would hand out the packages and Grandma would always apologize that it "wasn't much" but, it was always good.

Everyone is scattered across the country now.  Some aren't around anymore.  The younger ones now have families of their own.  It is harder and harder to stay connected in spite of the "connectivity" of this technology filled world.  Maybe it's time to focus on real connections again.

God in His infinite wisdom knew the importance of connections.  That's what Christmas is all about.  God connecting with His creation in a way that bridges the gap between us.  Keep your focus on that connection and the rest will be OK.  After all, this world is only a temporary stop on our way to something better.

How Do You Decorate Your Tree?

I enjoy seeing the different ways in which Christmas trees are decorated.  There are even contests held to see who does the best job of decorating their tree.  Some trees are extremely elaborate and most have distinct themes.

One version of the tradition of Christmas trees is connected with Martin Luther.  It seems that he was walking in the forest one starlit evening and looking up through the trees he noticed how the stars appeared to twinkle among the branches.  He sought to immitate that glorious sight by placing candles in a fir near his home.

There are other legends and stories surrounding Christmas trees.  Some go back to pagan practices long before Christ came to earth.  It seems that evergreen trees were worshipped by the Egyptians during winter solstice as a symbol of life's triumph over death.  Ancient Romans celebrated the feast of Saturnalia at the winter solstice.  It was in honor of Saturnus, the god of agriculture.  They used evergreen branches as decorations for the festival.

Christmas trees probably came to the United States along with the Hessian troops who fought in the American Revolution, or possibly as a tradition of early German immigrants into Pennsylvania and Ohio.  The practice was slow to spread and was even banned in parts of New England as late as 1851 by the Puritans.  The trees were thought to be a symbol of pagan rituals.

Whatever its origin, Christmas trees are now common.  How they are decorated is a matter of taste and personal expression.  For some it is show.  For others it is more personal.

Our tree is among the more personal.  Each year the number of decorations grows.  Some have adorned trees since our very first Christmas.  Others commemorate special events.  Many are handmade by our children.

Each year one or two new ornaments are added.  Sometimes they are removed.  When our daughter married and set up her own household she was given her ornaments -- those that commemorated special events in her life.  They now adorn her tree.  Some day my son will take his ornaments to his home.

I'm curious.  How do you decorate your tree?

It Might Be All It Takes.....

It is interesting to me how Christmas has such an impact on people in so many different ways.  For some, the world more-or-less stops between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.  The holiday is an extended period of little work and much play.  For others, nothing seems to change but possibly their frustration level with those in the first group.

There are those who, through a sense of joy, take on the Christmas season with gusto.  They purchase and wrap presents, they cook, they clean, they make special things, they are constantly buzzing with activity.  They are the ones in charge of the Christmas pageant at school.  They make the costumes.  They select, address and mail the Christmas cards.  They are activity personified.

There are others who feel a burden to do all of those things but, it comes from a sense of tradition and the expectations of others.  The tasks are the same but, the joy is somehow muted by a feeling of obligation.

Then there are others still who want the benefits, but, expect others to make everything happen.  Husbands are frequently accused of this particular attitude.  We usually are lousy shoppers.  We are nearly worthless in the kitchen.  We expect someone else to wrap the presents -- except possibly that one that we feel obliged to wrap ourselves.

There are those whose jobs don't stop for Christmas.  They work in grocery and department stores, gasoline stations and restaurants.  They are out feeding cattle and milking the cows.  They are doctors and nurses, policemen and firemen.  They are the ones who keep the lights on and the other services working.  They are the people who are on call in whatever industry, making sure that the world runs smoothly in spite of the holiday.  They are expected to do their job while others go blindly about their celebrations with no thought for them.

Christmas is about service to others.  Think about it.  Why did Jesus come to earth?  He came to pay the bill for our selfishness.  He was the ultimate gift.

As you go about your Christmas activities, pay attention to those around you.  Be a gift to them.  Give yourself that they also might experience the joy of Christmas.  It might be that all it takes is a hug and thank you.

Carols Behind Bars

Yesterday, I went with my friend Bob to do Prison Ministry.  I have a lot of respect for Bob.  He's a rancher and works hard.  He is very involved in the community.  He does a lot of things behind the scenes of which people aren't normally aware.  He also does Prison Ministry.

Last Sunday, Bob asked me if I would bring my guitar and go with him for Prison Ministry the following week.  He wanted to do some Christmas Carols for his group.  I went.

I had been to Prison Ministry with Bob before, but, not to sing.  He had previously tried to recruit me to be a part of the Prison Ministry group to which he belongs.  I didn't feel that it was something God was calling me to do.  So, I had not been back.

That first visit, several years ago, was very rewarding.  The inmates who came to the brief Bible study were very appreciative.  They also shared their prayer requests.  Some of them were heart-wrenching.

This time the format was a little different.  We started off with me playing the guitar and leading them in singing "Jingle Bells."  Interesting.  Some of these guys were pretty hard cases.  Some were in on drug or alcohol related issues.  I don't really know and it's not something that you can ask.  But, to see this dozen plus guys in their stripes and tattoos singing "Jingle Bells" was something.  They were a little tentative, but, almost all of them joined in.

Bob led them in a lesson about the Christmas story as related both in Luke and Matthew.  He didn't pull any punches with them.  He pointed out that Mary's "crime" of being pregnant out of wedlock made her an outcast.  It also was something that was punishable by death in her culture.  But, Joseph stepped up and handled it like a man.  He did the right thing.  He encouraged them to be man enough to "do the right thing."  He told them that they could bring cheer to their families at home by how they handled being locked up behind bars.  He also encouraged them that when they got out, they could change.

Bob does a great job telling these guys like it is.  They seem to respond well to him.  You could see them visibly relax and open up to the message.  Oh, there were a couple that weren't as open, but, you could tell they were listening attentively.

One individual in particular caught my attention.  He sat at the back of the group -- as far away as he could.  He seemed to have a scowl on his face and he kept his arms crossed in a guarded position.  He didn't smile.  He just stared intently at the floor.

When Bob finished the lesson he had me lead them in "Away in a Manger."  Think about the words to the song.  It's about a baby -- "the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay."  Those big old rough guys sang.  They sang from their heart.  There were a few embarassed grins around the table but, they sang.  All but one -- the one who sat at the back of the room.

We then sang "Joy to the World."  They sang even louder.  There in that prison -- Paul and Silas come to mind -- they sang.

Some of the prisoners who had not joined the group for Bible study were in the "commons" area adjacent to the room in which we met.  You could see some of them looking through the glass at this group of guys singing Christmas carols.  Some of them were puzzled.  Some looked as though they wished they had joined in.  Some turned away.

Then Bob prayed.  He prayed that they would find peace this Christmas season.  He prayed for their families.  He prayed that they would know Jesus as their Savior.  Finally, we sang "Silent Night."

"Silent night, Holy night,
All is calm, all is bright.
'Round yon virgin mother and child;
Holy infant so tender and mild;
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace."

There was a lot of emotion on the faces of those guys -- even a few glistening eyes -- and not just the inmates.  It was a very special moment.

All but one of them came up to me afterward and expressed their appreciation for the music.  All but one of them had a smile on his face.  All but one of them had experienced a brief moment beyond the bars.

But, you're wrong.  It wasn't the one who sat at the back with his arms folded, staring at the floor, that missed the joy of the moment.  He was the first one up.  He came to me and hugged me with tears in his eyes.  It kinda made mine glisten a bit.  No, it was one that I hadn't been able to see from where I sat.  Bob mentioned him as we walked out.  He said that he thought he was a new arrival -- still a little strung out on something.  He probably missed the whole thing.  Maybe his buddies in that room will get him headed in the right direction.

Jesus can reach right through the bars of that prison.  He can also reach through the bars of a hardened heart.  He's knocking at the door even now.

Revelation 3:19-20 (New International Version, ©2010)


19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Are You Ready For Some Christmas??!!

Monday night football has become such a part of our culture that when the question was asked earlier, "Are you ready for Christmas?", I couldn't help but hear Hank Jr. singing the theme song to Monday Night football!  Seriously though, how many times do you get asked, "Are you ready for Christmas?"

I suppose it is just an idle way to start (or make) conversation when we have nothing particular on our mind.  But, what if we responded differently?  What if our response was, "Of course I'm ready for Christmas!  Aren't you?"

Christmas is a season of joy! (Hint: It's not about the gifts.)
Christmas is a time of celebration! (Hint: It's not about office parties.)
Christmas is a time to be thankful! (Hint again:  It's still not about the gifts.)

Christmas celebrates the middle of the beginning.

Hmmm....

Just think about it.  In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Jesus is the author of creation.
Yet, he didn't join us here on earth until much later.
But, His coming to earth was only a part of the story.  He had to live, to teach, to die a human death, and then to overcome that death in order to fulfill his purpose for coming to earth.

Wow!  The God of the Universe came as a baby to save us from ourselves!

Christmas should be celebrated in our hearts and in our lives no matter our circumstances.  Whether we have completed the "obligatory" shopping is irrelevant to our preparedness for Christmas.  After all, it's not about us!

I can't wait to see the end of the story!  Are you ready for some Christmas?

A Christmas Memory

Once upon a long time ago -- more years in fact than I care to count -- I received a shotgun for Christmas.  It was my first shotgun.  It was the first firearm that I ever owned.

I was taught the proper use and care of firearms from an early age.  I have hunted about as long as I can remember.  In fact, some of my earliest memories are of hunting with my Dad or my Grandfather (my Mother's father) or, hunting in the pasture in the company of my dog, a Beagle-Bassett cross named Daisy.  Dad wouldn't let me go without the dog because he knew she would discover any rattlesnakes before I did.

Although I was able to carry a gun and hunt, I was not allowed to own one until I turned twelve.  So, you know what I asked for on the Christmas just before I turned twelve -- a shotgun.

We had travelled to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to have Christmas with my Grandmother ( my Dad's Mother) that year.  Her house wasn't very big and my Dad's family was large so there were lots of us crowded into the tiny living room for opening presents.  I had decided that I probably wasn't going to get my wish but sure enough, from behind the door, my Dad brought out a brand new single-shot 20-gauge shotgun for me.  I couldn't believe it.

I suffered for the next couple of days because I wanted desperately to go out and try my new shotgun but my Grandmother lived in town and there was no place to go hunting.  Fortunately, we were travelling on to Missouri to visit my Mother's grandparents and some other relatives as well.  They lived in the country at a place called "Swamp Holler."  It was just below "Jake's Knob."

Shortly after we arrived in Missouri to stay with one of my Aunts, it began to snow.  It snowed and snowed.  All of us kids sat in the house staring out the windows wanting to go out but it was snowing too heavily.  Finally it quit and we all went out in the country to Swamp Holler.  It was my first clear memory of going to my Great Grandparents house.  We weren't able to go there very frequently and so I had been very young the previous trips.

Dad let me take the shotgun with me.  I didn't realize it, but he and my Grandfather had a hunt planned.

The hunt began shortly after we arrived at my Great Grandparent's.  My Dad, my Grandfather and I headed down into the "holler" to shoot squirrels.  They were each carrying a .22 and I was carrying my brand-new shotgun.  We were planning on having squirrel for supper.  I'd never eaten squirrel and was a little unsure that it was something I wanted to do.  But, since the rule was that if you shoot it you eat it, I planned on having squirrel for the first time.

The snow was 10 or 12 inches deep as we traipsed through the fields and the woods.  I learned why the place was named Swamp Holler when my boots broke through the crusted snow and I found myself standing in the swamp bordering the creek which crossed the farm.  I was in heaven walking through the woods of Missouri with my brand-new 20 gauge shotgun looking for squirrels.  After awhile I began to wonder if we were ever going to see any squirrels.  In fact, I was getting a crick in my neck from looking up into all of the trees in an effort to spot the elusive fur-balls.  I think they must have had better eyesight than me because I don't recall ever seeing a single one.

Since the squirrels seemed to have left that part of the world, my Grandfather decided we might jump a rabbit if we would head toward my Great-uncle's place which adjoined.  He had some corn stubble that he felt sure would contain a conttontail or two.  Sure enough we jumped a rabbit.  I was excited that we finally saw game and brought the shotgun to my shoulder and let fly a blast of No. 7 shot that should have dispatched my target.  The only trouble was that it kept on going.  I just stood there in disappointment that my perfect aim had somehow missed and was beginning to doubt the quality of my new Christmas present.

My Grandfather saw me standing there and said, "Reload, he'll circle around and be back by in a minute.  Cottontails run in a circle."

I quickly took his advice and chambered another shell and strained to see where the cottontail might be.  Sure enough, I could see him bounding over the drifts and fallen corn stalks making a wide circle that looked like it might lead back my way.  Dad kept saying, "Hold on, don't shoot until he gets back in range."

I held my fire and watched until I couldn't wait any longer.  BOOM!  I let fly again and sure enough, that rabbit went somersaulting through the snow and lay in a heap.  Grinning ear-to-ear I ran to pick him up.  I had bagged my first game with my brand new shotgun.

We called it a day after that.  It seems the only purpose of the hunt was to give me the chance to try out my new shotgun.  We headed up the hill to my Great Uncle Bill's house where Aunt Lizzie was cooking biscuits in their wood-fired cookstove.  They still had a pitcher pump in the sink in the corner of the kitchen as well. 

The year was 1970.  It was a year I'll never forget.  That rabbit tasted pretty good but I still haven't eaten any squirrel.  Family and memories -- important parts of Christmas.  We must never forget however, what it is really all about.

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."  __ Luke 2:10-12 (NIV)

Transitioning to the Season

Only another week and then my travel schedule will slow for a few days around the holidays. I am ready! It seems that I've been going from one Trade Show/Convention to another forever. Yea, I know, it hasn't been quite that bad but what's a good complaint if you can't use it. What's bad is I just looked at January and it appears to be worse!! I don't see more than a two-day break for the entire month. Yee-haww (not)!

It has been good though (the Trade Shows/Conventions) because we have picked up quite a bit of business. That's not necessarily something you expect from such functions. Usually, they are good for starting the process or for developing new relationships, but rarely do you walk away with new business (at least not in my industry).

The other gratifying thing is that our marketing efforts are paying off. Potential customers know who we are. They recognize our name/logo and know what we do. They are seeking us out. That makes it doubly important that I be at all of the industry functions. When they see me there, they know that we are supporting them as well as asking for their business.

My schedule is reflected in my recent posts obviously (or should I have said, lack of posts). It seems that there hasn't been much time to reflect, just to do. When I'm running 9-0, my creativity goes down the tubes.

I need to get back in the creative spirit though -- Christmas requires creativity. It should be a joyful time of family and friends. It should be a time of reflection. Instead, it is usually filled with intense activity trying to get shopping done, programs attended and on and on. I intend to do better this year. I plan on enjoying the holiday season rather than dreading it. It's all about attitude right? (I guess I'm trying to convince myself.)

Message of the Day

MERRY CHRISTMAS Y'ALL!

The Birth - With Interpretive Commentary

From Luke, Chapter 2:

1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3And everyone went to his own town to register.
4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Now, a more interpretive version:

Way back in the early days the Emperor of Rome, Caesar Augustus, became so full of himself that he thought it would be interesting to see how many people were subject to him so he decided to count them. He sent out an announcement that everyone should travel to their hometown and be counted.

So Joe and his girl Mary headed for Bethlehem to be counted. Joe was kin to King David who claimed Bethlehem as his home. Mary went with him because she was pregnant and Joe was the only one who would take care of her. She was in a tough situation because she had agreed to marry Joe before she got pregnant. Joe, being the good guy that he was, decided to go through with the marriage so Mary wouldn't get kicked out on the street.

When they got to Bethlehem they couldn't find a place to stay. Mary was going into labor and so Joe, in desperation, begged an Innkeeper to give them a place for shelter. The Innkeeper didn't have a room but sent them to the cow shed where Mary gave birth to a boy. They wrapped him in cloths and put him in the feed trough where the hay would be soft and keep him warm.

While all this was happening to Joe and Mary, an angel appeared to a bunch of sheepherders who were in a field nearby. They were just minding their business and taking care of the flock so no predators or thieves could get them. But, the angel showed up and about scared them out of their skin before saying, "Chill dudes! I'm bringing good news. You should be happy. Your Savior has just been born over in Bethlehem. Get up and go over there. He's lying in a feed trough in the stable."

When the angel had finished saying this, a whole bunch of his buddies showed up and started singing, "Glory to God in the highest! Peace y'all." And with that, they disappeared.

So, the sheepherders discussed it among themselves and decided they should head into Bethlehem to see if there really was a baby lying in a feed trough. They were having a hard time believing what they just saw and wanted proof.

Well, they went and saw him all right. It was just like the angel said. When they started telling what happened, everyone looked at them like they were crazy. But, Mary and Joe knew. In fact Mary, like most women, remembered the event in detail and verified their presence when this story all got written down.

It didn't matter to the sheepherders that no one believed them. They kept telling the story anyway. It was all so crazy it had to be true.
________________________

There are several reasons that I have re-written the story of the birth of Jesus in more common language. The first is this: It hopefully makes one think a little bit about the true conditions surrounding the event. 1) Mary was a pregnant, unwed teenager who was taken in by a good friend. 2) She rode a donkey a pretty good distance while on the verge of giving birth -- I suspect it might have hurried the process. 3) Even heartless people (the Innkeeper) occasionally show a little compassion. 4) People can be resourceful when they have to be (having a baby in a barn, wrapping him in rags, using hay to keep warm). 5) Abortion wasn't an option even for this young, teenage, unwed girl (the course of history would have changed). 6) Common people are often involved in uncommon events (Mary and Joseph, the shepherds).

The second reason is this: If you're having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit, think about this first Christmas. Things didn't quite go like Joseph had planned. 1) I suspect he planned on staying with relatives or at the Inn. For whatever reason, it didn't work out. 2) I suspect he didn't plan on the baby being born in Bethlehem. The donkey ride probably sped up the process. 3) Joseph most likely would have preferred better conditions for Mary when the baby was born -- at least somewhere other than a barn.

The third reason is this: Miracles, belief in God, acceptance of Jesus as Savior and Messiah, will always be ridiculed -- just as the shepherds were ridiculed for their wild tale. We all should have their attitude of "so what, we believe it and we're telling it just like it happened" anyway!

The Perfect Gift

Procrastination
Drives my shopping.
I am not one
Who feels like dropping
Everything
In favor of a trip
To the store.
I put it off.

Indecision
Informs my choice
Of that perfect gift
That the commercials tell us
"Says I love you."
Because
It just isn't in me
To express my feelings
With an object.
I prefer deed.

Panic
Describes my feelings
As the day approaches
For which I am
Unprepared
After weeks
Of procrastination
And indecision
Driven shopping.
I am still at loss.

Therefore I settle for less
Than truly expresses
The agonizing desire to please
That has driven me to mental gridlock
And disappointment rather than
Met expectations
Of surprise and pleasure.
It's the thought that counts --
Right???