Sunday, December 20, 2009

My dearest God,

This morning I sat in a long line of chairs in the back of the sanctuary. Grandchildren sat on both sides as we took up most of a row, all seven of us.

As I sat in my church home singing the songs of Advent and Christmas, I looked upon the faces of my beautiful grandchildren. They were well behaved singing and praying with me. Every moment was a sacred gift; yet, one stands out above all the rest.

As the pastor was preaching the morning message, my nine-year-old grandson leaned over to me and said, "Grandma, this is my first time in church." I grabbed hold of that boy and gave him a big squeeze. "I'm so glad to have you with me." I responded.

When I think of Christmas miracles, I count this one of them. I could not have imagined this grandchild with me at Christmastime, sitting in church singing Christmas carols. And yet, there he was along with his sister.

As I consider your miraculous work in the world, I realize what blessings come from it. I have to acknowledge your greatness and the wonder of your love come to earth. As I sang, "How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is given..." I gazed upon my grandchildren, especially my grandson and I felt the joy that only heaven can give.

In those moments
of special grace,
my faith
soars in gratitude;
for once again
I hear
the sound
of heaven's
baby boy.
And I realize
the reason
angels sing.

Love, Andrea