The Friendly Beasts

And every beast, by some glad spell, in the stable dark was glad to tell of the gifts [they] gave Emmanuel. (“The Friendly Beasts,” Robert Davis) 

It’s not like the shepherds were just watching their flocks that one night, when the angel disrupted their boredom. They watched their flocks every night. They watched through the dark phase of the moon as well as in its various iterations around the earth. The light was constantly shifting. This night was different – a big announcement was made – but the shepherds still watched their flocks the next night also.  

I appreciate the realness of it all. I hear the angel calling but so is the cat litter box. 

Manger scenes often have more animals than humans, although the Bible doesn’t list any animals present at Jesus’ birth. According to the Christmas carols, which I always find authoritative, ox and ass before Jesus lay.  

My collection of manger scenes (yes, I collect them) has lots of pieces missing. One, from Guatemala, has lost its Jesus. Others have lost their Marys. Quite a few have extra camels and no sheep. Children have played with them, and surely some of the pieces are under their beds still. Rudolf, the red-nosed neighbor, is not a character in any of my creches, but should be. 

One more story about animals: someone told me she has a cat because otherwise she contemplates suicide. She lives for the cat.  

Animals know the good news. They make sure we know it too. 

No wonder the “true meaning of Christmas” lasts and lasts and lasts.  It’s carried by friendly beasts and an even friendlier God.  

Prayer
Blessed be the feline. Blessed be the canine. Blessed be the feathered friends. Blessed be the hooved creatures. Blessed be all the animals.

About the Author
Donna Schaper is Interim Minister at the United Congregational Church of Little Compton. Her latest book is Remove the Pews.