Now I know my ABC's...

Living Nativity

Growing up my family always attended a drive-in style living nativity, complete with live animals and people.  It was a special family tradition for the Christmas season and something I have missed over the years.  So, in October when I heard that a church in our area was planing a live walking nativity I quickly signed our little family up for tickets.

Our walking journey began first in the Old Testament visiting various characters who foretold of Christ's birth or were a part of His lineage.  We heard from several prominent Biblical characters: Moses, King David, Isaiah, and Micah.

Isaiah foretelling of Christ's coming

 We then heard the Christmas story from the Angel’s pronouncement to Mary, Christ's birth, and the glorious song of the angels proclaiming the good news to the shepherds.

What we appreciated the most, is this presentation didn't end at the cradle but continued the story to the cross and finally to the empty grave.  Demonstrating the unspeakable love of God for mankind.  Jesus' coming is significant; the storyline of the entire Bible revolves around it.  Thank you, Father for your special redemptive plan for us! 

Bold

I push the squeaky shopping cart up and down the aisles of the store as my little boy who is buckled in keeps begging me to pray.  

"Pray, Mama! Pray, Mama!"

His begging must be heard at least an aisle over.  I'm not sure why or what he wants me to pray for.  But, he continues to beg me to pray.

"Jesus!" 

People turn to look as they reach for a package of napkins or pull a box of Christmas lights from the shelf. Some stare and others smile our way.

"Pray?"

I look down at my little boy and wish a thousand wishes in this moment that he would always cling to the Truth of Jesus. I pray that he would forever share his faith so willingly, so boldly, so freely.....even if it's scary or hard or not the popular thing to do.  I finally gave into my little boy's request and we quietly bowed our heads at the end of the aisle out of the way and prayed to our Heavenly Father.

"Amen"

A tear spills over, too, because I'm a bit of a crier when it comes to my little boy and Jesus. 

Lord, make me bold like my toddler.