Advent Devotional for December 10th

"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs...." - Psalm 100:1-2

Today, December 10th, is my "little" brother's birthday. Even though he is grown with a family of his own, Derrell will always be my "little" brother. Growing up, the five of us, me, Donna, Debbie, Derrell and Judy were fortunate to be raised in a loving home filled with music. Early in our lives, we could be found singing together as our granny played the piano and our daddy played the guitar. They played age-old favorite hymns and country western tunes for us to sing.

All our lived, we enjoyed singing for church, community groups, school functions and civic organizations. During the Christmas season, one of our favorite songs to sing was an Eddy Arnold tune, "C is for the Christ Child." Even as adults we continue to sing this song around Christmas time.

The song goes like this: "When I was but a youngster, Christmas meant one thing. That I'd be getting lots of toys that day. But I learned a whole lot different when mommy sat me down and taught me to spell Christmas this way: C is for the Christ child born upon this day. H is for the herald angels in the night. R means our Redeemer. I is for Israel and S is for the star that shone so bright. T is for Three Wise Men, they who traveled far. M is for the Manger where He lay. A's for All He stands for. S means shepherds who came and that's why there's a Christmas Day."

Christmas is a great deal about tradition. For me, remembering special holidays and special occasions revolve around music. The traditional Christmas carols and melodies make the season come to life and fills my heart with song.

Bobbie Lester, First UMC - McCamey