The first Christmas we were dating, Molli established an enduring tradition. Every year, the first gift we exchange is an ornament that in some way commemorates that year of our life together. 

Some ornaments mark profound moments, like a little figure of a pastor in a stole for the year I was ordained, or a clear plastic ball holding a hospital wristband and a tiny knit cap—the first two things our daughter Cora ever wore.

Others are more playful, like my favorite animal the Komodo Dragon from the year we visited their steep-sloped island home, and, of course, commemorations of various Red Sox World Series triumphs. 

This tradition enables another meaningful moment each season, as the ornaments come out of the box one by one, we have a chance to remember, to reminisce, and to reflect with gratitude on the life we have shared so far. 

That is what this season brings, a chance to layer onto the old and familiar story the new experiences of our lives in this moment. This is our chance to peer once more into the familiar manger scene, and wonder what new way the message refracts in our changed hearts this year. 

The story is the same. We are different each time we visit it. 

Come. Join us on Sunday to hear the ancient story once more. Come with an expectant heart. Come, as you are, with all you carry in your heart, to see what this story might reveal to you this time. 

Prayer: Child of promise, be born in our hearts once more. Amen.