He-Said-She-Said, Watch – He Said | All-Inclusive – She Said

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. Luke 2:8 (NIV)

Tonight young eyes will watch the heavens, listen for sleigh bells, and peek from beneath covers with anticipation. I say, “God bless ’em.” Wish I shared their excitement. But the window of my soul is closed this Christmas Eve: darkened by disappointment. I am not alone. Others weep silently; reflecting upon a life shared and spent with loved ones who are no more. “Merry Christmas,” we say. “Be of good cheer.”

She watched for him to come down the road. Three days she had waited. Three days of going without food. But no more. Dead. The word pierced her heart. Her gaze fell upon an empty bed. No need to watch for a miracle. None would come. The prayers and promises were nothing more than foolish hope. Wrapping a shawl around her shoulders, she shut the door and started toward the cemetery.

They’d hoped he would be the one; the leader who would restore their nation to power. Now it was too late. Three days and still no word. How foolish to hope. Their eyes were upon the dusty road. No need to watch for a savior. None would come.

He’d fished but caught nothing. No surprise there. This was the new economy. Emptiness. From the beach a voice called, “Cast your net on the other side.” With eyes straining, he studied the man grilling the fish over hot coals. That voice! Could it be…

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