I was in the 8th grade when my mother began her life-long dream of earning her college degree in education. I’m the youngest of six children in a blended family (the original Brady Bunch) and my dad was supportive of her desire to attend evening classes at the local extension location of Miami of Ohio. Mom worked during the day at Merrill Company as an administrative assistant and many nights, attended college classes. When the Christmas season rolled around, my two oldest brothers were in the service and our family dynamics were looking completely different than any other Christmas I had experienced. Some days looked dark to me as I struggled being 13, two brothers not going to be home for Christmas, my mom was dealing with finals and always seemed busy with something other than “me”-ah, the selfish nature of a teenager!

Who was going to get the tree? Who was going to shop for our gifts? Who was going to take care of Christmas? Dad suggested I take over the task of going with him to pick out a tree, set it up and decorate! Having scoured the few boxes of ornaments we had, I was unable to locate a tree topper and so, taking my allowance I walked to the local hardware store to find something to place on the top of our tree. Lo and behold, a beautiful lighted angel was waiting for me and had been discounted 50%…just the amount of my allowance!

This memory floods back to me each time I hear or read Luke 2:11, 13-14.

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Our Angel tree topper purchased in 1961 became my favorite, shining light into my world as a symbol of Christ, bringing the joy, the thrill, the peace, and the glory such as I have never known!

Pat Reass

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for an amazing mom and dad who fostered the love of Christ in my life. I thank you, too, Lord, for showing me your light of peace and strength. Amen