As in our daily life, Christ lives in us, around us, and through us. In our own family, we enjoy all the trimmings of the season. But we have one tradition that makes sure the true meaning of Christmas comes through loud and clear.

What started with four rosy-cheeked toddlers now involves more than 30 kids, including those of our Jewish neighbors. Those first cast members are now the parents of the current cast of characters. (And if we ever suggest giving up this family tradition, the adults who grew up with it protest the most.)

Some years, including this one, we have a real baby to play Jesus. On other years, a Cabbage Patch doll has sufficed. If we run out of kids before we fill all the parts, we enlist the help of any willing soul. We’ve had Josephs who were half as tall as Mary and wise men who sported a 5 o’clock shadow.

For such a simple tradition, this play packs a huge wallop when it comes to keeping Christ in Christmas, and it reminds us of the greatest Gift ever given.

As three generations finish our Christmas Eve celebration this year, with kids snuggled in parents’ and grandparents’ laps, we’ll join together to sing a few favorite Christmas carols and also take some time to reflect on our blessings of family, friends, and faith. May you also feel surrounded by the God who came as a baby among us!