The Nativity by Federico Barocci, 1590
Copyright ©Museo Nacional del Prado

Mary, following days of arduous travel while carrying an unborn child, then giving birth in a barn, and then hosting a crowd of awe-struck shepherds, still held to her focus on her son. Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Maybe only a new mother can maintain such devotion?

Today, with all that swirls around us, take a few moments to treasure the birth of our Savior and ponder the reality of God becoming man. Understand this is reality, not a fairy tale. Such truth is worthy to remember and to let guide our enjoyment of this Christmas day and the year to come.