So yesterday I said I wanted to prepare my heart and mind for Christ's birthday party next week. Does going to the Nutcracker qualify? I didn't think so but I must say, after watching professional ballerinas dance this ballet several times over the years, I thoroughly enjoyed watching an unprofessional but equally passionate kid version. These aspiring dancers ranged in age from about five to teen-something, and for me, they captured the essence of holiday celebration. After all, we are celebrating the birth of a baby and what is more fitting than watching the festivities through the eyes of children?
In fact, sometimes I think that we grownups completely miss out on the magic of Christmas because we are so busy trying to make that magic happen. God didn't need our help 2,000 years ago and He did more than fine without our help. Sure, I love the decorations and the presents and the food, but I love the love more. I love the love of a God who sent His only Son to walk among us. I love the love of Mary who bore the babe in the manager. I love the childlike wonderment and amazement I feel when I steep myself in the true meaning of Christ's birth. I love the love of mankind as we try to be kinder and gentler to each other during this special time.
So I have decided that taking my mom to the Nutcracker last night qualified as preparing my heart and mind for His birthday. As she is getting older, she gets younger at heart. She thoroughly enjoyed the ballet, and I enjoyed a magical evening where she got lost in the childlike wonder of the celebration.
I want that childlike wonder. I want that Christmas love. I want the heart and mind of a child to prepare me for His birthday celebration next week.
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