For as long as I can remember, the Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service has been my favorite service of the year. In the hustle and bustle of Christmas, this service brings me to a place of quiet, a place of remembering Jesus and all that Christmas means. As we sing Christmas carols in the flickering candlelight, I remember not only Jesus humbly being laid in a manger, but in the beauty of this service, we gather around the Lord’s table.

As we gathered this year, the manger was placed beneath our church’s cross, simply decorated with white lights, a white cloth hanging from the cross, and Christmas greens. Such a clear reminder of Jesus’ coming in a wooden manger to die on a cruel cross – for me. He came to die, so that we might live. He gave His life, shedding His blood to pay the penalty for all sin. In the quietness of this service, I have opportunity to pause and ponder my Messiah and Savior.

We were reminded last night to take time for quietness, quietness not only reserved for a special Christmas Eve Service but quietness through the year. As my pastor read to the children a Christmas story, we all were reminded to share the joy of this season with those around us. In this time of joy and giving, there is only one Gift that truly matters – the only Gift that brings true joy.

In Jesus’ coming to this earth, Luke 2 describes the various responses as Jesus’ birth was made known. After delivering the message of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, the angels filled the heavens and sang for joy. Believing the message, the shepherds hurried to the stable and found everything as the angels predicted. The shepherds shared the news with others, who heard their testimony and were amazed at all this news meant.

Mary’s response was more reflective. Luke 2:19 says, “But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” To ponder is to think carefully or turn matters over in your mind. Mary experienced the message of Gabriel, heard the testimony of Elizabeth, the shepherds, Simeon and Anna, and now the care of God’s Son was in her hands. She treasured all she had observed in her heart. In the hustle and bustle of the coming King, Mary took time for quiet, time to consider all that took place and who Jesus truly was.

Quietness is not reserved for a special service or time of the year. The matters Mary quietly pondered are matters for each of us to quietly think through too. Take time today, and each day, to ponder the reason we celebrate this season. Share the joy in having received the most precious Gift ever given. Give the gift of Jesus this season. Merry Christmas!