One of my favorite nativities is a Christmas tree ornament that was designed by Ed Seale and produced by the Hallmark Company. I purchased this ornament in 1986, the year when I was ordained as a Minister of the Word of the Presbyterian Church USA. The ornament is crafted of white glazed porcelain. The simple design is of a Gothic arch under which you find Mary, Joseph and the Baby Jesus lying in a manger. A brass ring is attached to the top point of the star for a hook to be placed for hanging on the tree. At the lowest point of the star is another brass wire ring that wraps around the porcelain arch. Hallmark also had begun to sell some wooden stands with a brass wire crescent so that an ornament could be displayed on a tabletop as well as being hung on a tree.

This particular nativity ornament stays out year round. I display it in a bookcase in my bedroom and so I see it every day as a reminder of God’s great gift of love to the world, His Son, Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Alan Harvey

Scripture: Matthew 28:20b

Thought for the Day: In Hebrews 13:5 we read, Jesus has said, “I will never desert you nor will I ever forsake you.” In Matthew 28, Jesus promises, “Lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.” Especially when people fail us, it is wonderful to know that we can always rely on Jesus to be there for us!

Prayer: Dear God, the nativity ornament I keep out year round reminds me of Christmas and your birth. Your promises to me … to us … remind us of Your unfailing presence with us. Knowing You are always with us gives us strength for situations and trials we may face. Thank You, Lord, thank You so much! Amen.