The 12 Days of Christmas ... Day 12: Linus explains the true meaning of Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas first aired on December 9, 1965, and became a classic that still rings true more than forty-five years later. One reason it remains among the most popular Christmas shows of the season may be because friend Linus reminds Charlie Brown of the true meaning of Christmas by reciting the King James Bible New Testament verses from Luke 2:8-14 describing the birth of Christ.

The fact that the message is delivered by an animated character doesn't diminish the impact of the meaning.

Interestingly, the story goes that network executives did not want the scripture quoted in an animated show, assuming viewers would become bored. Charlie Brown creator Charles Schulz, however, was adamant that it remain. "If we don't tell the true meaning of Christmas, who will?" he asked.

Today, even more than in 1965, we need to hear the true meaning of Christmas as told by a little animated boy in a scene that is beloved by millions.

"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 tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men.'

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

How much richer we are for Charles Schulz standing by his principles. Merry Christmas to Charlie Brown, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang!

'Hallelujah'

This is beautiful. A Christmas Version of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah. Enjoy....

Hallelujah

I heard about this baby boy
Who comes to earth to bring us joy
And I just want to sing of this song to you
It goes like this
The fourth, the fifth
The minor fall, the major lift
With every breath I’m singing, ”Hallelujah”

Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah

A couple came to Bethlehem
Expecting child, they searched the inn
To find a place for your were coming soon
There was no room for them to stay
So in a manger filled with hay
God’s only son was born, oh Hallelujah

Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah

The shepherds left their flocks by night
To see this baby wrapped in light
A host of angels led them all to you
It was just as the angels
You’ll find him in a manger bed
And there you’ll meet your Savior, Hallelujah

Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah

A star shown bright out in the east
To bethlehem, the wise-man three
Came many miles a journey long for you
Into the place at which you were
Their frankincense, gold, and myrrh
They came to you and cried out, “Hallelujah”

Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah

I know you came to rescue me
This baby boy would grow to be
A man who’d one day die for me and you
Our sins will drive the nails in you
That rugged cross, was my cross, too
And every breath you drew was “Hallelujah”

Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Hallelujah

The 12 Days of Christmas ... Day 11: The story behind 'Where's the line to see Jesus?'

The poignant story of the little boy who saw the children lined up at the mall to see Santa and asked, "Where's the line to see Jesus?" was first sent to me by a friend. Soon after I received more emails with the story and link to the song.

At a time when the war on Christmas continues, a small child's innocent question makes us slow down in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the holidays and think about the true meaning of the season.

Here is the true inspiring story behind the music "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

While at the mall a few years ago, Becky Kelly's then four-year-old nephew, Spencer, saw kids lined up to see Santa Claus.

Having been taught as a toddler that Christmas is the holiday that Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, he asked his mom, "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

Becky's sister mentioned this to her father, Steve Haupt, who immediately became inspired and jotted some words down to the song in just a few minutes. After putting music to the words, and doing a quick home recording, he received a great response from friends. Her father asked if Becky wanted to record the song to see what could happen with it. Becky listened to the song, made a few changes, and headed to Shock City Studios.

It was at the studio where Chris Loesch, owner and producer, rewrote the second verse and part of the chorus. With goosebumps and emotions high, they all felt like they had something special and recorded the demo in just under two hours.

Two weeks before Christmas last year, her cousins decided to do a quick video to see what we could accomplish on YouTube. The first day it had 3,000 hits and it soared to a million from there! Becky received e-mails, phone calls, Facebook messages from people all over over the world asking for the music, CDs, iTunes, a full version, anything ... they had nothing.

After a couple of meetings with Chris following the amazing response, the team got serious. They headed back into the studio this past spring, this time with guitars, drums, bass, pianos, choirs ... the real deal ... and here it is today.

Getting everything set up, a website put together, and loving that thousands upon thousands of Christians have come together to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Out of the mouths of babes come profound truths that many adults can not understand. Hopefully, Spencer's observation will cause people all over to reflect on the love of Jesus, and that one day we will all stand in line to see Him. Becky is most thankful to our Heavenly Father to have this chance to share her music with you. Merry Christmas, everyone.

Performed by: Becky Kelley
http://www.wheresthelinetoseejesus.com/
Now Available on iTunes!: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...

About Becky:
Becky Kelley was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She first sang on stage at the ripe age of two and never looked back. Singing and dancing her way through high school, she ended up going to college in Nashville, TN, at David Lipscomb University. It was there when she started to get a taste of the Nashville music scene, singing and performing with some of Nashville's best.

After college, Becky decided to go back home, get married, and settle into a family life. Apparently life had other things in store, as she eventually found herself being pulled back into music, recording in the studio and welcoming an exciting new chapter into her life all while embracing her current life at home. While life has gotten busier, it has also become richer. Becky loves using her gifts both in the professional world and also singing her baby girl to sleep at night, praying God is leading her every step of the way.

Interesting facts:
* A portion of the procedes of CD sales will go to Christian Family Services in St. Louis and the good work they do finding homes for children in need.
* The man playing piano in the video is Becky's father Steve who is also the main writer of the song and is the pianist on both recordings.
* Gloria Estefan's bassist, Jorge Casas, is the basist on this recording.

Recording credits:
Performed by: Becky Kelley
Written by: Steve Haupt & Chris Loesch
Produced by: Chris Loesch
Recorded at: Shock City Studios, St. Louis, MO

Video credits:
Directed by: Chris Benson
Cinematography: Chris Benson
Edited by: Gabriel Reed and Chris Benson
Produced by: Carlyn Graumenz, Chris Benson (Lamplight Films) and Chris Loesch for Shock City Producitons
Cameras and Lights: Heroic Age

Important links:
iTunes purchasing: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...
Band Camp purchasing: http://beckykelley.bandcamp.com/
Christian Family Services, Inc.: http://www.cfserve.org/
Shock City Studios: http://www.shockcitystudios.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbi...
Original (Demo Version) Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPViKJ...

RVA: Bethlehem Walk 2013

Walk the streets of Bethlehem and experience the time when Christ was born. In its ninth year, Bethlehem Walk, located west of Richmond, will offer a Christmas encounter sure to confirm the meaning of the season. From their Facebook page:

Since its inaugural season in 2003, Bethlehem Walk has thrilled and emotionally touched thousands of visitors from across the Commonwealth. Nearly 6,000 travelers toured Bethlehem the first year. Last December, host church Salem Baptist in Crozier, VA partnered with 11 area churches to reach 13,000 people with this interactive Gospel drama that takes visitors through scenes ranging from the entrance of the Savior into the world to an empty Jewish tomb.

Your trip will take you on an adventure to first century Bethlehem on the night Jesus was born. As you enter the city allow the sights, sounds and smells to carry you to a period of time that changed the world. Expect to be met by Roman soldiers and counted in the census. Journey through the heart of the city to the marketplace that is bustling with activity from over a dozen authentic shops; enjoy samples from the baker’s shop, marvel at the potter’s crafts and listen for the rumor of a “king’s” birth from excited townspeople. Continue your journey to the Nativity where a very special baby was born in the stable. Here you can reflect on the blessed birth of Christ - the greatest gift that has ever been given.

Bethlehem Walk, free to the public, is located on Broad Street (Rt. 250) six miles west of Short Pump between I-64's Exit 167 (Oilville/Goochland) and Exit 173 (Rockville/Manakin-Sabot).

Here is all the information to make it to Bethlehem Walk 2013...

- The address for those in need of GPS assistance is 465 Broad Street Road, Manakin-Sabot, Va 23103.
- Parking is FREE onsite or FREE shuttles from the West End Church of the Nazarene (591 Broad Street) or the Food Lion in Centerville (30 Broad Street).
- There will be Chick-fil-A sandwiches, snacks and sodas available in the welcome tent.
- Accepting canned goods for our local Food Bank.
- Free refreshments at the end of the Walk.
- Strollers are welcome but be prepared for some uneven ground in a few spots.
- There will be chariots (golf carts) for those who need assistance.
- There are fires throughout the Walk to keep everyone warm.
- Be prepared to have an awesome experience hearing the true Word and reason for the season.

Dates and Times:
Dec 4 - 5 - Wed/Thu: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Dec 6 - Fri: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Dec 7 - Sat: 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Dec 8 - Sun: 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm

The story behind 'Where's the Line To See Jesus?'

The poignant story of the little boy who saw the children lined up at the mall to see Santa and asked, "Where's the line to see Jesus?" was first sent to me by a friend. Soon after I received more emails with the story and link to the song.

At a time when the war on Christmas continues, a small child's innocent question makes us slow down in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the holidays and think about the true meaning of the season.

Here is the true inspiring story behind the music "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

While at the mall a few years ago, Becky Kelly's then four-year-old nephew, Spencer, saw kids lined up to see Santa Claus.

Having been taught as a toddler that Christmas is the holiday that Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, he asked his mom, "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

Becky's sister mentioned this to her father, Steve Haupt, who immediately became inspired and jotted some words down to the song in just a few minutes. After putting music to the words, and doing a quick home recording, he received a great response from friends. Her father asked if Becky wanted to record the song to see what could happen with it. Becky listened to the song, made a few changes, and headed to Shock City Studios.

It was at the studio where Chris Loesch, owner and producer, rewrote the second verse and part of the chorus. With goosebumps and emotions high, they all felt like they had something special and recorded the demo in just under two hours.

Two weeks before Christmas last year, her cousins decided to do a quick video to see what we could accomplish on YouTube. The first day it had 3,000 hits and it soared to a million from there! Becky received e-mails, phone calls, Facebook messages from people all over over the world asking for the music, CDs, iTunes, a full version, anything ... they had nothing.

After a couple of meetings with Chris following the amazing response, the team got serious. They headed back into the studio this past spring, this time with guitars, drums, bass, pianos, choirs ... the real deal ... and here it is today.

Getting everything set up, a website put together, and loving that thousands upon thousands of Christians have come together to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Out of the mouths of babes come profound truths that many adults can not understand. Hopefully, Spencer's observation will cause people all over to reflect on the love of Jesus, and that one day we will all stand in line to see Him. Becky is most thankful to our Heavenly Father to have this chance to share her music with you. Merry Christmas, everyone.

Performed by: Becky Kelley
http://www.wheresthelinetoseejesus.com/
Now Available on iTunes!: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...

About Becky:
Becky Kelley was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She first sang on stage at the ripe age of two and never looked back. Singing and dancing her way through high school, she ended up going to college in Nashville, TN, at David Lipscomb University. It was there when she started to get a taste of the Nashville music scene, singing and performing with some of Nashville's best.

After college, Becky decided to go back home, get married, and settle into a family life. Apparently life had other things in store, as she eventually found herself being pulled back into music, recording in the studio and welcoming an exciting new chapter into her life all while embracing her current life at home. While life has gotten busier, it has also become richer. Becky loves using her gifts both in the professional world and also singing her baby girl to sleep at night, praying God is leading her every step of the way.

Interesting facts:
* A portion of the procedes of CD sales will go to Christian Family Services in St. Louis and the good work they do finding homes for children in need.
* The man playing piano in the video is Becky's father Steve who is also the main writer of the song and is the pianist on both recordings.
* Gloria Estefan's bassist, Jorge Casas, is the basist on this recording.

Recording credits:
Performed by: Becky Kelley
Written by: Steve Haupt & Chris Loesch
Produced by: Chris Loesch
Recorded at: Shock City Studios, St. Louis, MO

Video credits:
Directed by: Chris Benson
Cinematography: Chris Benson
Edited by: Gabriel Reed and Chris Benson
Produced by: Carlyn Graumenz, Chris Benson (Lamplight Films) and Chris Loesch for Shock City Producitons
Cameras and Lights: Heroic Age

Important links:
iTunes purchasing: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...
Band Camp purchasing: http://beckykelley.bandcamp.com/
Christian Family Services, Inc.: http://www.cfserve.org/
Shock City Studios: http://www.shockcitystudios.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbi...
Original (Demo Version) Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPViKJ...

"Where's the line to see Jesus?"

The poignant story of the little boy who saw the children lined up at the mall to see Santa and asked, "Where's the line to see Jesus?" was first sent to me by a friend. Soon after I received more emails with the story and link to the song.

At a time when the war on Christmas continues, a small child's innocent question makes us slow down in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the holidays and think about the true meaning of the season.

Here is the true inspiring story behind the music "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

While at the mall a few years ago, Becky Kelly's then four-year-old nephew, Spencer, saw kids lined up to see Santa Claus.

Having been taught as a toddler that Christmas is the holiday that Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, he asked his mom, "Where's the line to see Jesus?"

Becky's sister mentioned this to her father, Steve Haupt, who immediately became inspired and jotted some words down to the song in just a few minutes. After putting music to the words, and doing a quick home recording, he received a great response from friends. Her father asked if Becky wanted to record the song to see what could happen with it. Becky listened to the song, made a few changes, and headed to Shock City Studios.

It was at the studio where Chris Loesch, owner and producer, rewrote the second verse and part of the chorus. With goosebumps and emotions high, they all felt like they had something special and recorded the demo in just under two hours.

Two weeks before Christmas last year, her cousins decided to do a quick video to see what we could accomplish on YouTube. The first day it had 3,000 hits and it soared to a million from there! Becky received e-mails, phone calls, Facebook messages from people all over over the world asking for the music, CDs, iTunes, a full version, anything ... they had nothing.

After a couple of meetings with Chris following the amazing response, the team got serious. They headed back into the studio this past spring, this time with guitars, drums, bass, pianos, choirs ... the real deal ... and here it is today.

Getting everything set up, a website put together, and loving that thousands upon thousands of Christians have come together to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Out of the mouths of babes come profound truths that many adults can not understand. Hopefully, Spencer's observation will cause people all over to reflect on the love of Jesus, and that one day we will all stand in line to see Him. Becky is most thankful to our Heavenly Father to have this chance to share her music with you. Merry Christmas, everyone.

Performed by: Becky Kelley
http://www.wheresthelinetoseejesus.com/
Now Available on iTunes!: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...

About Becky:
Becky Kelley was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. She first sang on stage at the ripe age of two and never looked back. Singing and dancing her way through high school, she ended up going to college in Nashville, TN, at David Lipscomb University. It was there when she started to get a taste of the Nashville music scene, singing and performing with some of Nashville's best.

After college, Becky decided to go back home, get married, and settle into a family life. Apparently life had other things in store, as she eventually found herself being pulled back into music, recording in the studio and welcoming an exciting new chapter into her life all while embracing her current life at home. While life has gotten busier, it has also become richer. Becky loves using her gifts both in the professional world and also singing her baby girl to sleep at night, praying God is leading her every step of the way.

Interesting facts:
* A portion of the procedes of CD sales will go to Christian Family Services in St. Louis and the good work they do finding homes for children in need.
* The man playing piano in the video is Becky's father Steve who is also the main writer of the song and is the pianist on both recordings.
* Gloria Estefan's bassist, Jorge Casas, is the basist on this recording.

Recording credits:
Performed by: Becky Kelley
Written by: Steve Haupt & Chris Loesch
Produced by: Chris Loesch
Recorded at: Shock City Studios, St. Louis, MO

Video credits:
Directed by: Chris Benson
Cinematography: Chris Benson
Edited by: Gabriel Reed and Chris Benson
Produced by: Carlyn Graumenz, Chris Benson (Lamplight Films) and Chris Loesch for Shock City Producitons
Cameras and Lights: Heroic Age

Important links:
iTunes purchasing: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wher...
Band Camp purchasing: http://beckykelley.bandcamp.com/
Christian Family Services, Inc.: http://www.cfserve.org/
Shock City Studios: http://www.shockcitystudios.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbi...
Original (Demo Version) Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPViKJ...

The Easter Bunny

H/T to Mom who sent this to the grandkids ... and the big kids, too. :) Thanks, Mom! Encore post from 2009....

All I need to know, I learned from the Easter Bunny!

Don't put all your eggs in one basket.

Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.

There's no such thing as too much candy.

All work and no play can make you a basket case.

A cute tail attracts a lot of attention.

Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.

Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits.

Some body parts should be floppy.

Keep your paws off of other people's jelly beans.

Good things come in small, sugar coated packages.

The grass is always greener in someone else's basket.

To show your true colors, you have to come out of the shell.

The best things in life are still sweet and gooey.

May the joy of the season fill your heart....and always remember the true meaning of Easter is found at the cross, not the Easter Bunny.

Happy Easter!

"For unto you is born this day ..."

"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. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

{And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Luke 2:8-14 KJV

"Mary, Did You Know?"

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has come to make you new;
This Child that you delivered
Will soon deliver you.

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will calm the storm with His hand?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Has walked where Angels trod?
When you kiss your Little Baby,
You kiss the Face of God!

Oh, Mary, did you know?
Oh, Mary, did you know?

The blind will see, the deaf will hear,
The dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the lamb!

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy
Will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your Baby Boy
Is Heaven's Perfect Lamb?
This sleeping Child you're holding
Is the Great I Am!

Words by Mark Lowry - Music by Buddy Greene

Bethlehem Village at Afton ... where the Christmas story comes to life ... 2009

Follow the star to Bethlehem ... find the peace of the season ... it's closer than you think.

Bethlehem Village ... where the Christmas story comes to life ... returns to the Blue Ridge Mountains ... and you won't want to miss it.

Open December 18-22 from 6-9 pm (Dec. 20 open 4-9 pm), visiting Bethlehem is a moving family experience that will bring home the reason for the season.

Here is what to expect when you visit....

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Located at Hebron Baptist Church, Bethlehem Village is a project of love put on annually by the church with help from the community. Click here for directions and location information.

What is the history of the Bethlehem Project?

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains a highly dedicated group of volunteers is transporting delighted spectators back to the 1st century with one of the longest continuous running "Village of Bethlehem" productions in the country. The Bethlehem Project was conceived in 1999 by Rev. Jim Ailor (Hebron Baptist Church pastor at the time), who, having studied a miniature model of Bethlehem and the nativity, decided to recreate historic Bethlehem for people to experience firsthand. He rallied members of Hebron and surrounding churches together to create a temporary village during those first few years. It began with just a few shops and characters in the parking lot of the church. Each year the village was erected and dismantled for the event.

In 2004 Hebron Baptist donated land to allow the village to be constructed as a permanent collection of buildings and stables. It continues to grow each year in its scope and dramatic portrayals while still maintaining the authentic feel of a small village around the 1st century.

Our family has enjoyed this historic experience over the years ... others have, too. There is no cost ... a small donation helps to continue bringing this living history to the people of Virginia and beyond.

"Don't take Christ out of Christmas"

Thank you, Dr. John Dunlap of Waynesboro.

Photo by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
15 December 2009

Merry Christmas ... Merry Christmas

Michael's post about Christmas over at Write Side of My Brain caught my attention because the removal of Christmas from the public square disturbs me.

Michael wrote:

Call it what you may. Celebrate in any manner you wish. Wish everyone on the street “Happy Holidays.”

It’s still Christmas.

Granted, if you’re Jewish, Muslim or even Jehovah’s Witness, you’ve got a different religious view. This is America. So far, you’re still entitled to worship freely in the manner of your tradition or your choice.

So am I.

But if you’re hanging the holly, trimming the tree, filling the stockings…it’s Christmas. If lights are adorning your humble, or not so humble abode, they’re Christmas lights.

It’s a Christmas Tree.

It’s a Christmas Parade.
...
Fact of the matter is, however it may offend your sensibilities, Jesus IS the reason for the Season.

And, it’s okay to wish me Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Michael!

I am adamant that my Christmas cards actually say "Merry Christmas" on them instead of "Happy Holidays." I want Staunton to have their traditional annual CHRISTMAS parade, not a "holiday" parade as they have renamed it this year. Like Michael, I put up Christmas lights and a Christmas tree and have a Christmas party for my friends.

Jesus is the reason for the season.

Please ... wish me Merry Christmas.