I’m writing this a little early because Betsy and I will be busy later tonight. We’re going to head down off the Plateau tonight to attend the Christmas Eve service at St. John (Episcopal) Cathedral in Knoxville. We enjoy our little church up here on the Plateau, but the Christmas Eve carols and choral Eucharist are very special for us on Christmas Eve.
Since Knoxville is about 90 minutes from here, we get another benefit by going there tonight. Our travel gives us plenty of time to hear the complete Messiah by Handel. I’ve been listening to Messiah on Christmas Eve for about 40 years now, and never get tired of it.
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
May the meaning and joy of Christmas be with you and your family throughout the days ahead. Merry Christmas.

December 24, 2008 at 8:37 pm |
Thanks.Enjoy your Christmas Eve service and many blessings for Christmas,Jake and Ruth
December 24, 2008 at 10:43 pm |
A very Merry Christmas to you and your family too.
I love the waterfall picture in your previous post. You have quite a collection of pictures.
December 24, 2008 at 11:21 pm |
May the Spirit of Christmas leave its blessings on the hearts of you and yours! NG
December 25, 2008 at 7:58 am |
Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
December 25, 2008 at 8:06 am |
Just stopped by to day hi.
And send a big hug.
Merry Christmas.
December 25, 2008 at 11:40 am |
Thank you for this … and I hope your Christmas Eve was wonderful. May the joys of the Christmas season remain in your heart throughout the new year ahead.
Hugs and blessings,
December 25, 2008 at 12:47 pm |
Merry Christmas! Nice post.
December 25, 2008 at 6:13 pm |
Merry Christmas to you too. We didn’t do much, just returned our rented movies.
December 25, 2008 at 8:05 pm |
Blessings to you and Betsy this Christmas day.
December 29, 2008 at 11:31 am |
What a beautiful post! I sang in the Messiah in college and I can never get enough of it! What a beautiful piece it is…
I love your tradition!
Merry (belated) Christmas to you too!!
MommyWizdom