Merry Christmas

Christmas at Prairie Ridge.
12/9/2019 dwm photo

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 2:10 - 12

It's Christmas.  A day for family to gather to exchange presents while rejoicing over the present we received the very first Christmas (which was probably not December).

For some, it's a day to spend at the movies while others have to work because life doesn't stop on holidays.

Others believe life began on that Holy day.

We sing "Away in a Manger," "Joy to the World," and "O, Come All Ye Faithful."

More Christmas at Prairie
Ridge. 12/9/19 (dwm)

During my years as a student at St. Paul Lutheran School in Janesville, the kindergarten through upper grade students were part of a Christmas Eve service.

We sang and recited scripture that we memorized and practiced for weeks.  The gymnasium was dark except for special lights and two large Christmas trees.

Many years later, when we lived in north Wisconsin, we occasionally went to a small country church on Christmas morning.  It was small, seating 60 worshipers; a fresh tree with handmade ornaments at the front of the sanctuary.

The setting in 1995 was the same as 1975, 55, and even 1935.  The church hadn't changed, while it had electricity - it never had running water - making it a timeless place to celebrate.

Today, I hope you enjoy time with your family, while taking time to acknowledge the first family of this special day.