December 22, 2021

“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:7-8)

In the morning, when left unattended, Birdie, our Parson’s Jack Russell, jumps up on the bed and laps up my wife’s leftover tea from her mug on the bedside table. Everyone – all creatures great and small – should have a treat, especially this time of year. How many of you pet owners will have a stocking or a treat for your furry friends on Christmas morning?

Ox, ass, (foretold in the O.T., the latter ridden by Mary), sheep (the flock by night), camels (the Magi) all play a prominent role in the Nativity. And His birth inaugurates the age of lion and lamb laying down together.

Come, O Prince of Peace.

“Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and to be born [this day] of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.” (Christmas Day – BCP)