Tree Decoration

December 14, 2019

DAILY READINGS

Matthew 11:2-15
Exodus 3:1-10
This weekend’s scripture: Matthew 11:2-11

FIELD NOTES

Because of a tremendous snowfall, our high school debate team had to remain an extra night in northern Kentucky after the tournament ended.  Upon arriving home the next day, I discovered my parents and three siblings were sick in bed from the flu.  Later, my grandfather arrived, telling me it was time to go to our farm and cut down a tree for our Christmas tree.  So, we did. 
 
I was excited because I got to choose the family tree, and I got to decorate it without any disagreements from my siblings.  I prepared lunch and supper and took care of my family while taking my time decorating the tree. 
 
At 6 p.m., because they were so sick, the rest of the family was already asleep for the night.  With all the lights off, I sat looking at the Christmas tree with its shining lights.  It was an awe-inspiring wonder to behold.  I then received a “nudge” that I believe was from God.  I felt I was looking at a “burning bush that was not consumed,” and an angel of the Lord spoke from it, “Just as I came to help a sick world, I want you to help me help the sick, the weak, the least, the last, and the lost.”
 
Since then, I’ve experienced preparation for Christmas as a year-round “decorating” by helping the weak, the least, the last, and the lost of the world.  This is also one way that reduces the chances that I might become lost.  

Questions for the Field

1. What parts of decorating for Christmas do you enjoy? What parts do you not enjoy?
2. How might you decorate someone else’s life through helping them with words of affirmation, deeds of service, or simple hugs?
3. How might you help the weak, the least, the last, and the lost this Christmas?

Family Field Talk

1. Describe the joys and struggles of decorating your family Christmas tree.
2. What might we do to decorate another person’s life this Christmas?

Video

The following links are to two very inspiring videos that can guide us to help make Christmas very special for someone else.  

1. Secret Santa Saves Christmas (2:49)
2. Be Someone’s Christmas Miracle (4:32)

Prayer Guide

Gracious Lord, Jesus Christ, I know I want Christmas to be special.  I pray that you help me make someone else’s Christmas very special.  In your gracious name, I pray.  Amen.