by Joanne Wiklund
Years ago I worked for a community action agency in Upper Rock Island County doing outreach to the elderly. I worked part time, visiting anyone over 65. One of my missions was to be sure that the elderly were having their nutrition needs met, especially if they were shut in or ill. Door to door, I covered Upper County. Part of my job was to do information and referral from the agency’s Congregate Meal Site, located at First United Methodist Church. People attending those meals were such a joy. All ages came mostly for fellowship. They organized a kitchen band with wild “musical instruments,” and had a “hat lady” who sang about hats and displayed her collection. So much fun, so much laughter.
The Christmas meal was the highlight of the year. A Christmas tree was tall and decorated with glass ornaments. After lunch, I walked with a six year old girl over to the Christmas tree, holding her hand. I said, “Isn’t that a wonderful tree?” “Yes,” she said. Then with wonder in her eyes, she looked up at me and said, “I’ll bet you’ve seen LOTS of Christmas trees.” I told her, “I really have.”
Later I thought about our obvious age difference, about the wonder in her face, and the smiles she gave everyone. Christmas is still here to be wondered at. The birth of our Savior, the lowly settings, the star that led visitors to the manger and its precious contents. May your Christmas this year lead you to ages old Christmas wonder. May it bring a new wonder to your eyes and heart as we follow the Path to Christmas.
Matthew 18:4-10 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of Heaven . And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. Despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father, which is in Heaven.
