 Do you remember that little song we sang in Sunday School and Bible School when we were kids, Dear Reader? A cautionary tale wrapped in a catchy tune.
Praise God, sometimes as an adult it can remind us that we never know when affirmation will unintentionally slip from a child's lips.
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I'm kind of a late starter, Dear Reader. Whether it was having kids, graduating from college, or starting a career, I've lagged a little behind my friends. Now sometimes I feel like I'm playing catch-up...
 O, Most High God, we have waited ages for this night! How blessed we are to be part of the blessing. I can't wait to see the shepherds' faces!
Dear Father, we're spruced up and tuned up to do our best for you. We've chosen only the best songs of praise to announce the arrival of your Son to His new home. Everybody is in fine, strong voice, ready to join together to glorify your name. Be with us, El Elyon, our Sovereign Lord! We are humble in your midst, and thrilled to do your work. Let your voice of love and grace stream through ours this night. Would you look at those two? They look like they're straight off the farm. The girl looks like a child herself, barely old enough to be having a child of her own. This trip to the big city of Bethlehem may be the most exciting thing they ever do.
So many Jews, most of them looking out of place. Do they even understand what a census is, and how it will be used? Sometimes I'm not sure myself. By the looks of them, even if they understand why the "big, bad" Roman government wants a headcount, they resent it. Just look at the faces of those who have come to be registered. Worry, doubt, maybe some fear. Some of the younger ones look at me, in my soldier's uniform with my ledger and sword, with defiance in their eyes. The old ones, resignation written all over them, like they've given up hope for any kind of deliverance. Will any of them find what they're looking for in Bethlehem?  For years early in November, I've asked people whether they were cooking (hosting) or traveling for Thanksgiving. I probably won't do that this year.
This year has brought so many changes to so many people. But this year especially, I hear Mama's voice asking... For months we've been inundated with reports and numbers, haven't we, Dear Reader? It started with reports from the other side of the world that didn't seem to have much affect on us.
Gradually, the reports and numbers spread from foreign shores to our own backyards, bombarding us 24/7 through various mass media. And none of it seems to be encouraging. But, Dear Reader, there is some good news during these tumultuous times. Is there a veteran in your life, Dear Reader? Do you think your personal perspective is influenced by that relationship?
For years I was convinced that being raised by a World War II vet was the most powerful influence in my life... I was wrong. This has been a year for the record books in a lot of ways, hasn't it, Dear Reader? There's been a lot of passion on so many topics. It's also given us an opportunity to reflect on patriotism.
I love how Merriam-Webster defines patriot:  Dear Aunt Nell,
With the holidays just around the corner, I can't help but think about our delicious southern family dinners. In my recollection, all of our dinners were reasons for thanksgiving. Time and distance have changed a lot about Thanksgiving for us, but one thing hasn't changed for me... Dear Aunt Nell,
Tom and I are excited to hitting the road again for a vacation in Colorado! For years we've flown. It took years for Tom to let go of the wheel, but he finally figured out flying definitely has it advantages, except maybe this year... |
Hi, my name is Alice. A Way with Words is about sharing faith,
fun, & encouragement. Thanks for stopping by! I hope you find a little something to take with you. 
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