Belmont University Advent GuideSample

I have always loved Christmas, because it is the time of year that not only is it acceptable to believe in the impossible, but it is encouraged. I remember when I was about five years old I woke to my parents’ excited voices on Christmas morning. My mother told me to rush to the back window where I was surprised to find what I was convinced could be no other than the track marks of Santa’s sleigh in the snow. Years later I learned that my father had dragged our six foot by four foot picnic table around the yard so that the iron curved legs tearing through the snow would later resemble tracks to excite my childhood imagination. I love this story, because it reminds me of the amazing possibilities found when daring to believe. It reminds me what it was like to have childlike wonder.

There is a reason why our favorite Christmas movies are filled with Santa landing on our rooftops or in our backyards; they remind us to believe in the possibility of the impossible. Though Hollywood has overly embellished the idea of Christmas magic, these images can serve as a reminder for us to hope in the impossible and dare to believe.

Zechariah and Elizabeth trusted in God’s promise that they would beget John the Baptist even in their old age; therefore, their faith enabled God’s will to take hold in the world. Their son became the man the angel promised Zechariah he would be (Luke 1.16–17); therefore, his parents’ childlike faith enabled John to pave the way for Jesus’ coming into the world.

When we are willing to believe in the impossibility of Jesus, unthinkable magic can happen. Santa may not land on your rooftop, but, even better, someone may come to know the love of Christ. The Christmas story reminds us that anything is possible. Our Savior was born in a manger, and yet he is the Lord of our lives, ruling with love and hope. So, as you see what could have been Santa’s sleigh tracks this season dare to let your imagination wander, remember the power of believing in the impossible, so that you may leave your own tracks in the snow, paving the way for others to come to know Jesus and be embraced by the love of our Triune God.

Kate Harris
Alumna, College of Theology & Christian Ministry