Young Lydia awakens on this December’s early morning of peace.  Her imagination embraces new hope to be found in the season.

She understands that Christmas means much more than a decorated tree, wrapped presents, and fresh baked cookies.  As her intuitive eyes peer outside of her bedroom window, the dawn sky offers a view of a brilliant star. 

Inside her quiet thoughts, she whispers, “I need to see more.”

Throwing a long winter coat over her pajamas and remembering to wear her snow boots (just as her Mom always insists), Lydia ventures outside.  Standing on the front porch, she feels surrounded by the tranquility of the winter scene.

The snow-covered yard appears perfectly groomed, and the nearby pine trees are all powdered in white.  To her wandering eyes, the heavens’ star appears even closer.  She feels a tug at her coat to step down from the porch.

Her steps quicken as she edges into the nearby woods.  The cold air actually brings warmth to her heart.  Suddenly, she stops with eager eyes looking forward. 

Again Lydia’s imagination begins to wonder, “What will I find if I walk some more?”

An undistinguished pine tree, holding candles of light, invites her to enter a clearing.  Right in front of her waits an unbelievable scene.

A tiny feed trough filled with hay stands alone.

From the shadow’s fringes come a man, a woman, and a newborn baby.  The woman carefully places the baby in the feedbox, because there is no room for them at the inn. 

Lydia’s pulse quickens as she realizes what is happening.  A “real life” nativity landscape . . . or is it the story predicted through prophecy’s promises?  Her young mind just isn’t sure.

She looks back up into the heavens and fixes her eyes upon the morning’s star.  Suddenly she feels joy surrounding her heart.  Indeed, she believes in the love found in her Savior.

Kneeling in the soft snow, Lydia offers a short prayer:

Sweet Baby Jesus

Your love warms my heart.

Your birth will lead many to worship you.

I will always walk with you.

I love you so much.

Amen.