THIS CHRISTMAS PAUSE TO PONDER

12/22/91



THIS CHRISTMAS PAUSE TO PONDER
BY NELSON PRICE
LUKE 2: 1 - 20
(PAGE 1497 COME ALIVE BIBLE)

JESUS CHRIST left scientists theorizing, philosophers musing,
artists reflecting, musicians meditating, and His earthly
mother, Mary, pondering. It is right there in the Book, look at
it: "But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her
heart" (Luke 2:19).

With the hectic demands of this holiday season, practice the
Mary principle ... purpose to leave time to "ponder."
That is an interesting good word we don't use often. It
translates the Greek word SUMBALLO which means "to put together
one thing with another in considering circumstances." That is
what Mary did. We must, also, if Christmas is to be fully
enjoyed.

At this stage many people are beginning to say what my wife has
been able to say for weeks. That is, "I'm ready for Christmas."
She finishes her shopping in August. I plead with her for us to
finish decorating the house for Christmas by Halloween.
What does it really mean to be ready for Christmas? Many years
ago I read a poem which ignites my mind.


"Ready for Christmas," she said with a sigh
As she gave a last touch to the gifts piled high.
Then wearily sat for a moment and read
Till soon, very soon, she was nodding her head.
Then quietly spoke a voice in her dream,
"Ready for Christmas, what do you mean?

Ready for Christmas when only last week
You wouldn't acknowledge your friend on the street?
Ready for Christmas while holding a grudge?
Perhaps you had better let God be the judge. ...

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