WEDNESDAY

 We've reached the end of November.  We've moved closer to 'cold' and further from 'warm'.  Most of us my age hate that but we are mollified by the Christmas season.  

Warmth is good.  We like things that are heartwarming not heartcolding.  We always want to receive a warm welcome, not a cold one.  

We do think of Hell as hot; but never warm.  I know skiers love the snow but, even more, they love the big fire in the ski lodge after the slopes. Florida or North Dakota?  Arizona or Montana?  Cincinnati or Cleveland?   I know my choices.  Santa may live near the North Pole, but not because he wants to - there are no reindeer in the Bahamas.  

So, here's what I suggest.  Don your pj's, slip on those wool-lined slippers and brew some hot chocolate.  Now cozy up to couch in front of the fireplace.  Take in the smell of evergreens.  Share a blanket if you have one.  Play a Christmas carol if you choose or just listen to the crackle of the burning wood.  

Now, it's time to think of the real Christmas, the coming of the Christ child.  It was raw and dank, cold and smelly - no a pleasant place for a newborn.   Remembering that, let us be thankful for what we have and think of the words of that traditional English Carol and say:  

God rest we gentle people, let nothing us dismay.  

Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day. 

He came to save us all from sin when we were gone astray.  

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy. O tidings of comfort and joy.  

Now to the Lord sing praises, all of us within this place.

And with true love and charity, each other now embrace.

This holy tide of Christmas is filled with heavenly grace.

O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy. O tidings of comfort and joy.