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Ordinary pursuits come to a Christmas Eve quieting

''And, lo, the star, which they saw in the East, went before them, till it came and stood where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.'' - Matthew 2:9-12

As this day progresses, you'll notice that everything gradually slows to quiet.

Office lights click off early. By day's end, most shopkeepers will lock up and put their feet up for the first time since Thanksgiving. Streets empty, and traffic lights signal to no one but a passing bird looking for a bit of stray seed.

Families will begin to gather at churches and feast tables, the order of the ritual in large part dependent upon the age of the youngest child in the house. Late tonight, when everyone is asleep, Santa and his eight tiny reindeer will make their magical trip around the globe, stopping at homes of children of every age to deposit presents and nibble on snacks left on mantles.

There will be no news tonight, for no news will be as important as the big news we celebrate tonight and tomorrow. We celebrate God's gift of the babe Jesus, His only begotten Son, who He sacrificed for the world's sins then, now and forever.

We too often forget amid the crush of Christmas activity why we exchange gifts on Christmas. Matthew's account of the Wise Men's trip by starlight to the miracle manger reminds us that we exchange gifts not to honor ourselves but to honor Him. And in so doing, if our hearts are in the right place, we make room for God's gift once again.

All of us would do well to contemplate the accounts of Luke and Matthew, and ask ourselves to honestly answer what we have sacrificed for our fellow man. On this day we turn to the realization that we all are of one, even the least among us - who seem to be remembered better at this time of year more so than others. For many it is a time to pray that all of us remember the least among us throughout the year, not just when sweet charity's voice penetrates the clutter of daily life.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas, all comes to a virtual standstill as we are drawn to one another in holy celebration of the birth, in Handel's magnificent words, of the King of Kings, Lord of Lords. There could be no bigger news tonight.

''And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

''For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

''And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

''And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

''Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'' - Luke 2:10-14