A Walk Through Bethlehem

In contrast to the commercialism so prevalent this time of year, we returned to the heart of Christmas this morning.  There was not a Santa in sight; no one asked Christian what he wanted for Christmas.  Instead, we made homemade ornaments, decorated a bag and packed it with food for the homeless, and walked through Bethlehem.   In Bethlehem, the children were able to barter in the marketplace, participate in a census, pet the shepherds' sheep, and meet Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus.  What made the time even more special, was the fact that we shared it with great friends from our church.  The day was truly a blessing.