Friday, November 14, 2014

The Manger Scene: A Christmas Short Story

 
One of my favorite Christmas decorations are Nativity sets or Manger Scenes. I'm amazed at how many depictions of the birth of the Savior are available--fancy collectable Fontanini figures, carved olive wood treasures from the Holy Land, even tiny creche scenes to go with Christmas house displays. I have a special set made of yarn and pipe cleaners---a gift from one of my children.
Over the years, I've gathered several pieces I love. Two sets stay out all year round---a dark brown pottery one and an odd assortment of vintage chalkware figures---including two well worn angels standing watch over the little family, the shepherds, visiting wise men and a variety of animals.
Angels...one of the most recognizable symbols of Christmas. But that's not the only role these heavenly beings fill. I believe, (and I'm not the only one--David Jeremiah and Billy Graham), that one of the important jobs of angels may be to accompany believers from here to their heavenly home when their time on earth is over.  What a comforting thought!

The Christmas season is upon us. 


























 The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side.
                                                       Luke 16:22

 For he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go.
                                
  Psalm 91:11

Praise the Lord, you angels of his, you mighty creatures who carry out his plans, listening for each of his commands.
                               
  Psalm 103:20


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