Advent Calendar Day 17

This morning I want to share with you something a little different. It's not a coda or a poem or a cartoon or art, it's a sermon called "The Empty Stocking," and it's from one of my favorite Christmas movies The Bishop's Wife.

(I know there's a remake, but I'm talking about the original version made in 1947, not long after World War 2 had ended. )

It's got Loretta Young and David Niven and Cary Grant, and it's a lovely old film about learning to temper dreams and ambition with love and faith. It's about separating the wheat from the chaff and the real meaning of Christmas and a whole host of things that are important to remember all year long. It's also funny and romantic and magical. 

Anyway, at one point near the end of the movie Henry, the Episcopal priest, reads a short sermon written by Dudley the angel. Every time I hear it, I'm reminded of how easy it is to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of the season and forget the most important things!

Have a very happy Monday morning--and a wonderful rest of your week! 

The Empty Stocking

Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking. Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry, a blazing star hung over a stable, and wise men came with birthday gifts.

We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries. We celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, with the sound of bells, and with gifts.

But especially with gifts. You give me a book, I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer and Uncle Henry can do with a new pipe.


For we forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled, all that is, except one.

And we have even forgotten to hang it up. The stocking for the child born in a manger.


Its his birthday we're celebrating. Don't let us ever forget that.

Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most. And then, let each put in his share, loving kindness, warm hearts, and a stretched out hand of tolerance.

All the shinning gifts that make peace on earth.