Each year as we take time to ponder the wonderful  story of the nativity, it is striking that it is a story that never grows old. It never loses its charm or its wonder. Each year it seems that something new or different stands out and recaptures our attention anew.
   This year as I reflected on it, I was struck by the fact that this age old story of salvation is permeated by one surprise after another.
   The unexpected census taking, for example,  necessitated the journey to Bethlehem where the savior was prophesized to be born. The overcrowding of that   little town led to the birth in a manger . No one expected the long awaited savior to be born into such humble and earthy circumstances amid crude animals . The birth of a King?!?
   Those to whom the birth was first announced – simple shepherds in the field watching over their sheep. Glory to God sang the angels and sent them on their way to discover the babe who was to change the history of the world. More animals and earthy visitors for the baby. 
   Lo and behold, days later, three astrologers arrive from their journey in search of the newborn king. They bear Him gifts and bow down in homage. And more animals arrive with them– their camels!
   Is it any wonder that surprise is an important element in celebrating Christmas these days? What does Santa have in store for us this year? What’s in that funny shaped box all wrapped in red and green? What of the heartfelt gift no one was expecting but everyone wanted ?
   Most surprising of all are the ways that this newborn savior chooses to enter our own lives: through our friends and relatives and neighbors; in simple everyday gestures of kindness and generosity; in reaching out to the poor and hungry
   Jesus chose to make His dwelling among us, in the earthy, everyday. HE continues to make His presence felt and promises to remain with us until the end of time.