This is a glorious time of year. I am looking forward to the cantata next week, the candlelight communion service on Christmas Eve, and of course, the Joy Gift Pageant tonight.

One never knows what to expect at Christmas pageants. I read recently(1) of a heated discussion between some pleading grown-ups and a particularly adamant five-year-old. She would wear her new dress or she would not appear in the pageant. First, the Director begged her, "Please put on the costume. The people want to see you as MARY."

"NO," replied the girl, "Either I wear this new red dress or I will not go out on the stage."

Next, her Sunday School teacher pleaded with her: "This costume is just like Mary would have worn. Mary was the mother of Jesus and you want to look right for the part, don't you?"

"NO!" an…