The Christmas story is rather messy don't you think? Little baby in a stable. Animals and their refuse all around. Crying quite likely. Shepherds, smelly clothes and all, stopping by with fear and wonder to gawk and make merry. Yet in the midst of the chaos, the Bible tells us "Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."

Oh to be like Mary as the Christmas crowds gather and the chaos ensues. Yes, we ought to strive for order and a deep sense of reverence for the meaning of the celebration. But knowing the propensity of the children to act up out of tiredness, excitement, hunger, or over-stimulation, we ought also to find it in our hearts to remain peaceful, and like Mary, to "treasure ALL these things."

May you and yours truly know the "peace of God that trancends understanding" This Christmas!