This afternoon, I came up to campus a couple of hours early to do some work before the play begins.  When I drove onto campus, I saw the manger sitting in Chapel Circle.  Just the structure is up so far (I have heard that the animals, parents and baby will arrive next week)  but it made me glad to know that once again this year, there will be that special symbol of our faith on campus. 

Like most people, I love the Christmas season.  I love addressing my Christmas cards on the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year, listening to the Johnny Mathis Christmas album, putting out all the decorations that Benjamin or I have made or collected over the years and sitting close to the sparkling tree late at night by myself drinking hot chocolate.  I love baking the entire weekend before finals, listening to all my Christmas music and stopping to dance with my son EVERY SINGLE TIME “Rockin around the Christmas Tree” plays.    

But most of all, I love the quiet feeling of expectation this time of year.  For the entire season, I always feel like something amazing could happen.  God could send another miracle just like he sent Jesus so long ago. I could have an opportunity to help someone who needs it or something joyful, and totally unexpected, could happen to any of us.

And the symbols of the season serve as small, constant reminders of the hope we should all have for the future.  Good things are coming our way!