Unexpected

It was not at all what they expected. There was no day or night, the room was always bright. Twenty-six people were in the same room, it seemed to be a waiting room of sorts, but they weren’t too sure. Most of the people were young children, but there were a few adults spending this time with the children. A voice came from above; it was a booming voice, like God Himself, “I will cut the pumpkin roll now.” Mysteriously a slice of pumpkin roll, slid over onto a nearby plate as elves began to sing and dance. As the second slice was cut and passed, jingle bells began to sing out from a nearby Christmas tree. Adults and children alike stood in awe, as the real Santa Claus entered the room, boys and girls; I have a surprise for you. For the first time in eleven Earth days the boys and girls did not shed a tear as they listened closely to what Santa had to say, “You have been chosen as the first children to hear the story of Christmas right from the lips of the Virgin Mary.” The adults’ eyes all grew huge and a smile emanated from each face. The voice of God spoke again, “Though your trip to Heaven was very tragic, I have brought you here to listen to the story of Christmas, so snuggle close, enjoy your pumpkin roll, and know that your Christmas gift this year, is under the tree, the Virgin Mary will pass them out as soon as she can.” Mary stepped into the room and none of the twenty-six already there had ever seen anyone so beautiful. Everyone listened attentively as she told the story of Jesus birth and the Three Wise Men. When she was done, she turned to the tree, but all the children were more interested in the beauty they had seen just outside as each new comer joined the room. No, it wasn’t what they expected for Christmas, but the adults and children of the Newtown, CT massacre are relieved to see the beauty that abounds in Heaven. The best part is that Mary took them each to the viewing room, where they could see their families trying to enjoy the celebration of Christ.