From Isaiah 9:6. "For unto us a child is given,"
From Isaiah 11:6. "and a little child shall lead them."

Some years ago, my husband taught music in elementary schools. During the Christmas season, his lessons centered on learning traditional Christmas carols. When introducing new carols, he would tell the story of how or why that particular carol was written before teaching the children to sing it.

Following the introduction of the new carols, children would be asked to select other carols from their songbooks for the class to sing. During one lesson, a child chose a particular carol and asked my husband to tell the story about how it was written. Jack told the child he was sorry, but he didn't know the story for that carol. Another child immediately went to the back of the room, picked up a copy of the Bible, brought it to my husband and said, "Here, teacher, read."

Give yourself an extra special Christmas gift every night this week. At bedtime, for the little child who still lives in you, reread the comforting, familiar Christmas story. (Matthew 1:18 Ð 24 and Luke 2:1-20) After finishing the story, put your hand in that of the Christ Child and be gently led to sleep.

Babe of Bethlehem, we are so thankful that you came down to bring us your love. We your children need to be safely led. As our gentle parent, nudge us to grasp your outstretched hand. Amen

Contributed by Nancy E.
Published Monday December 22, 2003
Week 4 of Liturgical Year C