Written by: Marc Kelley Even though I am a very spiritual person and I communicate with the Lord everyday, I have not gone to Church on a regular basis for many years. This Christmas Season, I was asked to attend the Christmas Eve service at a local neighborhood church. I was told the children of the church were putting on a program that I might enjoy, if I would only come to the service. Now, I love children, and I take every opportunity I can find to spoil them. For many years, I believed Christmas was a time for children, and as an adult, I was there simply to observe the magic, and smile at their excitement. |
 What happened next was nothing short of a “Christmas Blessing.” As I stood singing, I noticed a small, female child, dressed as a shepherd for the program. This child walked directly over to me and hugged me, as if she too, was tending to her flock. She was a beautiful child with long dark hair, pale skin and she stood right beside me singing about the birth of Baby Jesus. I had never seen this child before, I had no idea who she was or where her parents were; and most of all, why she chose me, out of a church filled with people, I am sure she knew well. She stood beside me singing, and when the last chorus was over, she again hugged me, then walked away as if to say, “no big deal, he just looked like he needed a hug.” As I sat down, my eyes welled up with tears and I could not help but think, this child has a much better understanding of the meaning of Christmas, than do most of us adults. What she gave to me is something I will never forget, and something which I will cherish for the rest of my days here on earth. In just a few minutes, this child captured the true meaning of Christmas. She gave me a gift, money could not buy, indifference could not destroy and hate could not permeate. Kindness was the lesson taught here. Kindness to all, regardless of how they look, what they do for a living or even if they have a home. This child understood, Jesus offers everyone his love. |
| I never saw this beautiful child again, and I have no idea who she is. I never got to say thank you to her, or her parents; and yet, I am struck with the idea, she would be ok with this. We can all learn a lesson from this shepherd. We should not be asking what’s in it for me; but rather, what is it that others need. How can we help to make the world a better place for all of us, who inhabit the earth? Merry Christmas. |
