Day 3 - The Twelve Chreches of Christmas

 

One Christmas Eve in a sermon I suggested that every Christian home should have a Nativity Set or Crèche, since it is the best symbol of Christmas.

After the service, one young family tirelessly searched Toronto until they found a store still open and purchased a Crèche for their family Christmas.

Imagine my pleasure when I saw the above Crèche on the lawn of this house on Guelph Line, where thousands of travellers whiz by in their vehicles daily.

This Crèche is eye catching in its simplicity, and catches the attention of passersby, regardless of their driving speed.

Carved from a piece of plywood and painted white, it enables the viewer to take in the whole picture, in one quick glance. Sometimes in life, we are presented with an opportunity, which if not grasped immediately, is gone forever. Christmas is not like that; the benefits of Jesus/God coming into this world are available to people every day of the year... all we need to do is respond.

Each time I passed this Crèche on my way to minister in Rockwood, I thought about what its public presence portrayed for others, and then I would reflect on what tremendous gifts God had loaned to me in my personal and professional life. Perhaps, as the shepherds returned to caring for their sheep and the astrologers journeyed back to their homeland to continue their studies of the stars, they too realized anew what God had given to them in their encounter with the new born messiah or saviour.

Today think about what gifts God has presented to you in your life – give thanks for them and pray that you will have an opportunity to share them with others. 

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The Crèche is a nativity set depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. Since St. Francis built the first Crèche in the 13^th century, the idea has expanded around the world. Even though people frame their Crèches to reflect their local customs, traditions, cultures and materials, the central focus is always the same – the birth of the Saviour. During the 12 days of Christmas, I will share 12 Crèches and their messages. Hope you enjoy them.  

    Love to hear your thoughts on the Creches in COMMENTS below.