Christmas season has officially commenced. While nibbling on Thanksgiving leftovers, I flip on the TV to start my holiday movie viewing. There are many holiday classics that give me happy nostalgic vibes. Among them are White Christmas, A Christmas Story, It’s a Wonderful Life, While You Were Sleeping, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Christmas Carol and The Bishop’s Wife.
However, my first choice this year was Miracle on 34th Street. The 1947 and 1994 versions make for the perfect double feature. In this storyline, an adorable seven year old Susan Walker is introduced to the existence of Santa Claus. Her mom is a no-nonsense non-sugar coating straight shooter business woman who, due to her own heartbreaks, has been brutally honest with Susan about life. Mom has not taught her about fairytales, make believe or childish games, which includes Santa Claus.
When Kris Kringle shows up, she is intrigued but skeptical of this learned jolly fellow. His challenge is to get the cynical mother-daughter duo to believe in him. By building a relationship with them, their hearts soften. As the world cheers for Santa, (spoiler alert) Susan and her mom become believers.
In the 1947 version, Kris’ attorney friend proclaims in court, “Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to. It’s not just Kris that is on trial, but the things he stands for like kindness, joy and love– intangible things are all that matters.”
There’s no greater joy than to witness the beaming smile of a child, which is captured in these movies. I never tire of Susan’s cherub expressions. I love watching children beam with joy, surprise and anticipation.
Jesus’s special affection for children is highlighted as He tenderly beckons them, welcomes them and blesses them. He gently conveys that we all should approach the Lord with childlike faith, humility and innocence. God’s special love, care and protection over children extends to all of us.
Children are naturally trusting, teachable and have an innocence that Jesus wants us to emulate. He was calling for a conversion of the heart and mind to be childlike as opposed to the pride, self-sufficiency and independence often valued by the world.
‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven “ Matthew 18:3
May we take time this Christmas Season to sit at the Lord’s feet and worship Him with childlike faith and adoration!
Happy Birthday, Jesus!!!
Teri Van Klaveren
P.S. – This is a GREAT time to INVITE a friend!
