Simply beautiful.

Last night we attended a Live Nativity at the Bridge Between Retreat Center in Maribel, Wisconsin.  It was a dark and foggy night.  As we traveled across the back roads of Wisconsin  we wondered there would be anyone else there.  We arrived to find that many others had gathered for this very special worship service.

The old barn was packed to the brim.  We sat on hay bales with other Christ followers and soaked in the quiet and joyful atmophere.  Exactly two strands of white Christmas mini-lights decorated the old barn.  The chickens, lammas, ducks and geese were present but quiet, captured by the Holy hush.

The service began.   Readings and acappella Christmas Carols were shared.  The children gathered for a Christmas story entitled "Who is Coming to our House?".  A costumed Mary and Joseph entered in answer to the story's question.  An enthralled audience was delighted with their baby (aka. Daniel) who portrayed the Christ Child.  The service was concluded with more thoughtful readings and singing "Joy to the World".

I think that this is the most unembellished and meanful Christmas worship experience I have ever had.  I was stuck by it's beauty and simplicity.   The hope and knowledge that Christ's Church is eternal and not engulfed by the troubles that beseige our world sprung up in my heart.   It is easy to get caught up in the trappings of our religious experiences and forget the simple message of redemption. Christ's church is eternal and therein lies our future and hope.

How do you keep Christ in Christmas with your family?