When our family was young, Christmas Eve was always when we gathered with others in our home. It was our big meal, our time to party. Christmas Day was opening gifts, a special breakfast, and then snacking on leftovers for the rest of the day.
I remember reading a quote from Carol Nelson, “Christmas is a time when you get homesick-even when you are home.”
I guess I am homesick this morning. This Christmas Eve will begin with a trip over to the hospital infusion center for an infusion I get every four weeks. Tonight, our daughter and son-in-love are graciously bringing in dinner. It will be a time of joy, just a different time of joy.
As we have aged and our children have grown and have families of their own, Christmas has gotten quieter. Perhaps there is one last Christmas carol? One more in tune with the nostalgia I am feeling.
“Silent night, holy night / All is calm, all is bright / ‘Round yon Virgin Mother and Child / Holy Infant so tender and mild / Sleep in heavenly peace / Sleep in heavenly peace.
“Silent night, holy night / Shepherds quake at the sight / Glories stream from heaven afar / Heavenly hosts sing, ‘Alleluia’ / Christ the Savior is born / Christ the Savior is born.
“Silent night, holy night / Son of God, love’s pure light / Radiant beams from Thy holy face / With the dawn of redeeming grace / Jesus, Lord at Thy birth / Jesus, Lord at Thy birth.”
Truly, Wonders of Wonders!
