Carole Bystrom

Remember Christmas Carole Bystrom

"Be not afraid; for behold I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people; for unto you a son is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you; you will find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger" (Luke 2:10-12). Two thousand years ago, people were busy with their own lives, caught up in the frenzy of taxes and tributes in very troubled times. Had it not been for the angel's heavenly announcement or wise men from the east following a brilliant star in the heavens, few would have noticed a weary young mother and her precious newborn asleep in a lowly stable in Bethlehem. As it was then, so it is now. In the flurry of joyous celebration and increased responsibilities, the real meaning of Christmas is often swept into a corner and buried under a pile of beautiful boxes and bows, often lost in a procession of parties and presents. Remember Christmas is a collection of poems enhanced with a few often forgotten Christmas carols reminding us to, "Stop! Look! Listen!" All of creation is calling us to remember. Just as it was so long ago, the angels are rejoicing, praising God, calling us to join the chorus. "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased' " (Luke 2:14). As it was in the beginning, so it is today. God's love never changes. Merry Christmas!