Charlie Brown Christmas

"And there were shepherds living out int he fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night"- Luke 2:8 (NIV). 

A Charlie Brown Christmas is 50 years old now and still shown every Christmas season, but did you know that networks had asked Charles Schultz to omit the scene with the Christmas story? If you remember, Charlie Brown was discouraged because of the holiday commercialism. He was directing the Christmas play, when it all came to a head during one of the rehearsals, and he asked if anyone knew the real meaning of Christmas. That's when Linus walked to center stage, the spotlight shown on him, and he spoke up: "And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rest."" (Luke 2:8-14). Then Linus said, "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." I'm so thankful Charles Schultz didn't cave into the networks. What a treasure we would have lost embedded in his animated movie; more importantly, if we don't keep Jesus as our reason for the season, what a Treasure we will have lost. Jesus is the true meaning of Christmas. We need to ponder anew God's great love in giving us His only begotten Son.