It is Christmas Morning 2012. I woke up early and sat in my rocking chair for a few minutes, enjoying the solitude and letting my mind wander. I began thinking about today, anticipating our happiness and joy when we share Christmas festivities with our children and grandchildren who live close by. I then thought about our recent trip to Arizona and the fun we had visiting our children living there and I remembered to say a prayer of thankfulness that we were able to travel through a blizzard to return home safely on Christmas eve. And then I recalled so many memories and blessings of this past year, thinking it's hard to believe that this time last year we were enjoying a summer Christmas in New Zealand. In my quiet thoughts this morning, I am reminded one more time of the love our Savior has for each of us, and his great atoning sacrifice so that we may each find joy in this life and the life to come. As I was pondering these loving thoughts, I glanced out the window and saw a little flock of 'Christmas snowbirds' feasting on tree berries. I wanted to take a picture but knew by the time I got my camera out, changed the lens, fiddled with the controls, the magic moment would be gone, and so would they, so I didn't bother. But to my surprise my little morning friends seemed contented to rest and feast. Most were brown, but one was a red breasted little guy who seemed to always take center front where I could see him the best. I think he was telling me to go ahead and find my camera, and he would wait for me. And sure enough, he did. After a few quick snaps, they were gone, but I have a picture and a memory to remind me. And long after the wrapping paper is ripped, and the presents lost or broken, we can still keep a picture of Christ in our mind's eye and in our heart to remember what He has done for us.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
