My kids have memorized Luke 2:1-14 this year. Brad learned it a few years ago, but this year it was a joint effort. They've had two opportunities so far this year to recite for a crowd. One was yesterday at the Ogle family Christmas. The other was last Wednesday at the Rescue Mission.

I've been so touched by the compassion that has developed in them lately for those less fortunate. I wanted to teach them this as much as possible, but I think a lot of it has to come from within. When we were in NYC, they both wanted to help every homeless person we passed. We did give money at several Salvation Army buckets, and Bailey dug in her pocket for spare change for a man outside our hotel one morning. She was really moved by their plight.

So when I told them last week that Daddy and I were going to sing at the mission, they both immediately asked to come. I asked if they would like to recite Luke 2 for the men, and they jumped at the chance. They began practicing right away with pencils for a microphone.

When we arrived at the mission, they suddenly became a bit intimidated by the 250 homeless guys crammed into the chapel. I could see the fear in their eyes as the nervous energy increased. So after we had sung a few songs and it was time for them to go up and do their thing, I introduced them to the men and told them that they were a little bit nervous. I asked them to say, "Hi Brad, Hi Bailey... it's O-KAY!" It was hilarious to hear all the men repeat that for me. The kids said the verses with almost no hesitation, and those guys jumped to their feet for a standing ovation. It was such a great moment!

But my favorite part of the whole story was Bradley's prayer that morning. I would have given anything for a recording device at that moment. Among other things, he said, "Lord, I pray that you will use Bailey and I telling the Christmas story to teach these men about Jesus. I know they've had a hard time, and maybe if they don't know you, this will help them want to know you, because you make all the difference." I couldn't agree more.

But the angel said, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all the people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ, the Lord."