I think now’s as good a time as any to share one of my favourite Christmas stories. Allow me to introduce you to the wonderful Papa Panov…
We first meet Papa Panov on Christmas Eve. He is at home, sadly contemplating a Christmas alone. In his loneliness, he reaches for a book he can barely read. He stumbles over the words, before he falls asleep…
Some time later, he awakes with a start and sees a vision, which spurs him into action as the dawn breaks on Christmas Day. Papa Panov prepares himself to do what he can, with what he has, where he is.
Do what you can,
with what you have,
where you are.’
Theodore Roosevelt
He spends the day, eagerly watching and waiting, in the hope of a promise. But he does not receive the visit he was expecting and, as the evening creeps in, deep disappointment and fear threaten to engulf him.
With a heavy heart and eyes filled with tears, he is ready to conclude that his imagination deceived him, and his vision was nothing but an old man’s dream. At the depth of his despair, the life-affirming voice speaks again. As Papa Panov listens, he receives great clarity of mind. A pervading peace fills his heart. His smile returns and his eyes sparkle with joy.
For someone like me, who loves a happy ending, this story is a winner. I really hope you enjoy it too.
I’ve divided the book into 4 readings. Part 1 is the longest (approximately 12 minutes). Parts 2 to 4 are 6-7 minutes long. If you don’t want to listen to my voice, I won’t be offended if you turn down the volume.
Part One:
Part Two:
Part 3:
Part 4:
Jesus said,
“For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’
“Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’
Matthew 25:35-40
Read with Julia 