Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, originally uploaded by pejnolan.

Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?

Linus Van Pelt: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.

[moves toward the center of the stage]

Linus Van Pelt: Lights, please.

[a spotlight shines on Linus]

Linus Van Pelt: "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.'

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"

[Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]

Linus Van Pelt: That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.


I really do love giving gifts more than receiving. I feel almost embarrassed when receiving a gift. I'm uncomfortable with the idea of someone - anyone - giving me something. Bu,t GIVING in another thing altogether.

I am so excited to see if it was the right present. I like to see the recipient's eyes sparkle. It is the anticipation that is so wondrous to me. That anticipation, to me, is what Christmas is all about.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites prayed with anticipation of the coming of the Savior. Now that the Son of Man has come, died for our sins, risen, and ascended into heaven; we anticipate his glorious return. Meanwhile, we do the best we can to live a life to be worthy of his sacrifice. We can do our best to bring his love and joy to others as we come in contact with them.

Christmas is about that feeling. Christmas is Christ's mass.

It's 12:00 Midnight: Merry Christmas!