Zoo- Cows, sheep, camels, a donkey and doves. That’s my manger scene. Actually the Bible doesn’t mention any animals being there. I don’t care. He is their Savior, too (Isaiah 11:6), so I will keep them.

X-mas- Breaking through the space/ time continuum and bringing hope in a universe declining in entropy, Christ will come again and make all things new. Deserves a bit more than an “X,” don’t you think?

Wenceslaus- “Good King Wenceslaus” is one my favorite Christmas carols though it has nothing to do with Christmas. This influential King of Bohemia has a great story. Look it up online. I like the song because it is only one of two Christmas songs I can plink on the piano with one finger…

Vishnu- There are statues and shrines of Vishnu, supreme god of Hinduism. Jesus doesn’t come as a statue; he comes as a human infant in real history and in the lives of those who seek him.

Universe- Jesus is “King of the Universe.” That is why even the “star in the east” gets involved in the story.  Jesus is the ruler of all of creation.

Tinsel- What is this anyway? Aluminum? Some other metal? Is it “green?” Do you reuse it? Having never used the stuff, I don’t know. I am not going to start now.

Santa- Billy Bob Thorton notwithstanding, a good model of graciousness and generosity. He can come down our chimney anytime.

Rest- When Jesus comes into the world people can know true rest. We are as safe as that baby sleeping in the manger because he is also the one who rules the world we might be worrying about.

Queen of Heaven- Some use this title for Mary. Others are uncomfortable with this royal language. Father, Son and Holy Spirit are rulers of all that exists. Mary is a wonderful model of faith.