A full moon on Christmas Eve is so very romantic; especially when the surprising radiance of moonlight reflects silver on a snow-filled landscape. In Christmas Moonlight, a brilliant full moon dances on the wispy clouds, paints a silver pathway over the pond, touches the snowy tree limbs with light, illuminates the walk and bridge with a welcoming glow, and bathes the roof of our solid stone retreat in a warm, milky white.

The scene is joyful and welcoming. I’ve draped the roof and eaves, even the bridge with festive Christmas lights. The graceful arch of the antique stone bridge and the foot path that glistens in the moonlight seem to invite the passer-by to stop by and sample the hospitality of the home. Golden light pours through big windows and smoke curls up from the chimney; the cozy comfort of the family life lived within offers a welcome refuge from the cold, crisp Christmas Eve.

In Christmas Moonlight man and nature work together to confirm the warm, inviting, generous mood of Christmas Eve. Distant barns remind us of God’s bounty. The silence is pervasive… wait, is that Santa’s sleigh we hear in the distance?