When our pastor stopped at our pew a few minutes before the start of the Midnight Mass last night and asked, “Would your daughter like to carry Baby Jesus in the procession?” I did not hesitate.
“Why yes, she certainly would!” I replied, and then turned to sweet Gabby who was doing her very best to be up to the moment in spite of her tendency toward shyness.
I whispered her through the basics and told I would walk her to the sacristy and stay there with her until the procession started. She put on a brave smile.
I worried a bit, but I need not have. Gabby was more than up to the task.
She carried Baby Jesus with tender care and presented him to Father with solemnity and grace. I can’t take any credit for that, though. Her confidence was not boosted by my words or presence. It was her older sister who made all the difference.
“It’s a good thing …” she whispered to her little sister as we left the pew, “your hair looks fabulous!”
Good thing, indeed. Sometimes all a girl needs to be ready to carry the Prince of Peace is to be reminded that she is having a good hair night.