My Story Telling Doll

This year, for the first time, we have our own nativity display under a spotlight in our front yard. Our friend, Garry from Apsley made it by hand for us. For a month, I’ve been looking at the empty manger and wished baby Jesus was lying there. My sister, Anne, gave me a special blanket with red hearts on it to keep my “baby Jesus doll” warm and cozy out in the snow. Today, it’s time. I’m wrapping up the beautiful, brown baby doll that, for years, has been part of my story telling ministry. Placing it outside, I feel a big tug on my heart. Someone might steal him, as he lies there in the cold.

My thoughts now are of Mary. She had heard the angel’s message, and the shepherd’s story. Tom sings Mark Lowry’s beautiful song, “Mary Did You Know?” One line stands out. “When you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God.” For sure, Mary lived in a world like ours, full of violence, greed and disease. It was a risk to give birth. Mary also knew that there was love, kindness and caring in her world, just as there is today. Mary said yes to God, and Jesus was born.

Today, I am placing this doll in his manger bed. Our yard, like many others, will carry God’s message for all who pass by. Those who know our Christian story will see Jesus wrapped up, cozy, lying in the manger. They will remember that, in Jesus, God came to walk beside us, to teach us how to live in harmony and love. They will know they are not alone, carrying Jesus’ teaching in this world.

Those who don’t know the message might be moved to curiosity and ask, “What’s that all about?” I believe God will give them someone to tell the story. Maybe my little doll will help at least one person hear and receive the wonderful knowledge of God’s love. Wouldn’t it be wonderful, one person comes to believe that he or she is God’s precious child, because he/she has seen our little display?

In this world of Covid 19, I believe that even if my doll disappears from his manger bed, God will use it to touch someone’s heart. And I know that already, God has touched mine.

I send you my wishes for a blessed Christmas Day to you and your family. Even with Covid’s shadow, may you find Joy, Peace, Hope and Love not just for one day but for all of your life.

Love and Prayers, Janet Stobie