A few posts back (on December 27), I suggested kneeling before your home Nativity scene and imagining what each figure might have to say to you. This is a form of meditation, of opening yourself to the Divine to see what might await you.

Two days ago, I finally put away my Nativity, one that I inherited from my family, one that is about as old as I am. And I took the time, as I wrapped each figure, to imagine what wisdom each might have to share. Here's what I discovered:

The shephered who carries the sheep on his shoulders, wrapped around his neck (much as I often carry my cat, Romeo, who seems to  love the closeness and affection involved in this simple act): "It's not a burden if it's something you love."

Then there was the shepherd playing his flute: "With music and love, every journey is it's own destination."

One sheep looks down: "Watch where you step."

The other sheep  gazes ahead: "Keep loooking up."

The black king (and this seems most appropriate after having joined in today's MLK "marade"): "Faith knows no distinctions, nor barriers."

The kneeling king (this one is white): "Be humble; lots of times you think you're right, but you're likely not."

The third king (whose ethnicity is hard to determine): "Wear comfortable shoes; you never know how long you'll be traveling…or where."

Joseph: "Of least importance in what people think or say of you; just follow your calling, no matter the obstacles."

Mary: "No matter how crazy God's request, say Yes."

"Embrace all," says Jesus in the manger, arms open. And maybe also, "Could we warm this place up a bit…a little kindness might do it."

And last, but not least, the angel, who is actually a recent addition, and not from my childhood (the original angel was lost/broken somewhere through the decades): "No matter your circumstances, there's some reason to rejoice.

This year I added a donkey, but he's too new to the scene to yet have something to share–maybe next year.

Merry Christmas, everyone. May the spirit last in your heart…

Text and image © 2011 by Dirk deVries. All rights reserved.