by Pastor Tim White

This glorious Christmas is my 64th and I just love this Holy day more and more. What do you need from Jesus this Christmas? Well, there are probably various opinions on what you actually need. For me, I would like a new toy. You can never have too many toys. My wife Jackie would probably say something heartfelt, like healing in my knee. To me there are so many people that need healing, so I’d be happy for God to give it to one of them and give me lollipop, a toy firetruck, or something else practical 😊.

One thing I wish everyone in the world would get is some inner quietness, peace, refreshing, and sense of calm. Most are not even aware of their need for this, but it’s needed by all of us. I’ve been reading this precious Christmas story for 64 years and it always brings out a sub-theme of simple peace.

The hymn, “Little Drummer Boy” was written by Ringo Starr in 1968. No, I think it predates the Beatles. However, it was really written by Katherine Davis. The first major recording was by the Trapp Family Singers in 1951. Yes, this Czech traditional folk song was recorded by the real Austrian Trapp family whose story became famous with the movie, “The Sound of Music”.

I love the line, “The ox and lamb kept time, Pa Rum Pa Pum Pum.” When I was young, I thought this lyric was delightfully silly. Today it makes perfect sense. Animals like music and who thinks it is far-fetched that in the stable at the birth of Jesus if there was any music, then I suppose that the animals cooperated? It adds imaginative peace and simplicity to this beautiful Christmas story. 🎄 That is what I pray that Jesus gives you for a miracle this Christmas; quiet peace as you reimagine the simplicity of the first Christmas.

Your friend for the rest of my life,

Pastor Tim White

PS: Please join us this Christmas for “Christmas Lights the Night” Services. Sunday, 12/22, at 4:00 pm or Tuesday, 12/24, at 3:00 pm or 5:00 pm. There will be lots of animals and music. The Christmas Story will come alive for you and your family. We have camel rides, miniature donkeys to pet, pictures with Santa and lots of cookies. At 11:00 – Midnight we have our traditional Christmas Eve Candlelight service for those who like to come back and welcome in Christmas morning in the softness of the night. Go to www.wacathedral.org to get your complimentary tickets for “Christmas Lights the Night”. Invite your family, neighbors, co-workers and friends. We’d love to share the Christmas with them.