Dispatches from Home: Christmas Eve 2017.

“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 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, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.”

It’s quiet at the Kalberg’s house. Mother’s had a “spell” which started yesterday morning. I finally got her calmed down and in the bed around two this afternoon. She’s resting calmly now… and so will I be very soon. But in the stillness of the late afternoon, as the sun’s dying rays dance like sparkling ribbons of light into my room, I can’t help but wonder what those shepherds thought all those years ago, when the night sky lit up with the angelic voices of the Heavenly host singing, Glory to God and on earth, peace good will toward men! Please remember the real reason for the season. Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!