The Nativity

My heart is full tonight. Rich and I just returned from a "Live Nativity" program our ward put on. Right now is the time I wish I had my sister and brothers' talent of writing. I fear my words will not dipict the feeling that was felt tonight. But alas, I will write about it anyway. I can't help not too!

We arrived at the Stephen's farm that belongs to a family in our ward. We were greeted by the "Innkeeper." He led us to a tent where yummy hot chocolate and heat awaited us. We waited for others to gather and once we had a large enough group, the Innkeeper began to speak. He told us there was no room for us here and we would need to move on. He asked us if we felt if the Innkeeper that turned Mary and Joseph away that cold night was a rude man? I thought about that for a minute. Maybe he didn't know who he was turning away? Had he known who Mary and Joseph were and who they were about to bring into the world, would he have given up his own room? No one will ever know. At that moment, I felt sorrow for the Innkeeper. I wonder what he felt like when he heard the news of Jesus' birth? The Innkeeper then led us to the "Wisemen" who were gathered around a fire and dressed just like Wisemen! They spoke to us and told their story. They explained there were most likely more than 3 Wiseman but the number didn't matter. What mattered is they followed the star in the East and found the babe. Then we were led to the "Shepherds" whom were also gathered around a fire. They were dressed just like shepherds equipped with shepherd staffs and sheep! It was so darn neat. They excitedly told us their story. Then, the Innkeeper asked us why we thought shepherds and particularly those shepherds in the story were chosen? I am still thinking about that one. If you any of you have any thoughts on that, please share them with me. Anyway, then walked to an area where a choir of angelic children and adults were singing Christmas hymns. They were dressed in white and sounded so beautiful. It brought the spirit even closer. Finally, the time came to go to the stable. We walked through a tiny door, down a small ramp and through a tiny walkway where Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus were waiting for us. The smell of straw and the donkey, yes there was a donkey, filled the air and made me feel as what it would've been like to be there. Mary spoke and welcomed us there. She told us her story and Joseph followed. Then, they both bore their testimonies. I couldn't help but shed a fed tears. It was beautiful!!! Gosh, I wish our kids could've seen this. I was crying at this point. I had straw all over my gloves and I kept wiping it into my nose. The donkey took a liking to my boots... not sure why but that helped me hold back the tears.

I am so grateful I went tonight and felt that wonderful spirit. I am so thankful for this time of year. Not just for the pretty trees and decor, but for that special spirit that can be felt if you truly let it. We should strive to feel it all year, but it just seems to be more prevelant around this time of year. I know that Jesus was Heavenly Father's only begotten Son, who came to earth in the poorest of circumstances. I know he loves all of us and sacrificed his life for ME. I am going to strive to teach my kids and help them understand what Christmas is REALLY all about. It is all about what was felt tonight.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE! I LOVE YOU!