And there were in that same country shepherds, abiding . . .yeah right.

I need to be among the shepherds for awhile. You know, those guys that were minding their own business and their sheep when their ordinary lives were interrupted by a heavenly host praising God and saying Glory to God in the Highest, Peace on Earth, Goodwill to men.

I doubt the scene was like the Fontini collection. I sense something more like "O Brother Where Art Thou?" At first they probably stood in disbelief, but as the angels continued to sing, i imagine after the "Fear Not," part of the message sunk in, there was a lot of laughing, elbowing, and interesting commentary on what was going on. The conversation and the activities had to be cleaned up in a hurry. But apparently they got it. I bet it was quite the party as they headed toward the stable where they felt perfectly at home.

Lately I've been on that long journey with the wise men, desparately following the star, which their intellect told them held the hope of the world, but they weren't sure why or how. Serious business, this road trip from the East. No stops at Stuckey's for this group. Nothing to joke about. Gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for an infant. Prophecies of danger. Not a slinky or silly putty to be found in those fancy wrapped packages which probably seemed a bit out of place among the hay, the dung and the distinct smell of a barn.

I need silly putty, or a slinky, a wind up rubber band balsa airplane, silly string, or one of those bass that sings a song. I need dirty santa, trivial pursuit, a road trip to find the gaudiest lawn decorations. I don't really long for the whole barn atmosphere, but a pile of friends on a sofa, floor and chairs, eating salsa and chips, cheetohs and cookies, and drinking something to make them feel warm. Maybe watching "Elf" or "Christmas Vacation" or "A Christams Story". And sometimes almost barn like depending on which friends are around. You know who you are.

I like that about Jesus. I am sure He loves the wise men. But I know He loves the shepherds too, and all the culture they bring with them.

So, "Joy to the World", whether it be as interpreted by Handel, or by Three Dog Night.

Joy to you and me . . .