Life has a way of bringing us full circle, doesn’t it? Sometimes, as we age, we find ourselves needing care in ways that humble us, even make us laugh through the tears. This Christmas, I had a moment that reminded me of what it means to rely on others and, ultimately, on God’s grace.
A Humbling Night
Let me paint you a picture. Last night, after indulging in a few too many beans and bananas (a dangerous combo, let me tell you), I didn’t quite make it to the toilet in time. There I was, an elderly man in need of a caregiver to help me clean up. My caregiver, bless her heart, is already burned out and needs support herself. The moment was raw, real, and, if I’m honest, deeply humbling.
At first, I felt embarrassed. How did I get here? But then, as I sat with my thoughts, a deeper truth began to surface. Isn’t this what Christmas is about? Becoming like a child again—needing help, needing love, needing grace.
A Child Born to Save Us
Think about the baby in the manger. Jesus came into this world just as helpless as we are in our most vulnerable moments. He needed Mary to feed Him, Joseph to protect Him, and strangers to recognize His worth. The King of Kings started life completely dependent, just as we all do. And in moments like last night, I was reminded of that circle of life.
A Caregiver’s Love
Weary hands wiping away my mess—a modern echo of the way Mary cared for Jesus. I was alone, dealing with my own mess, One wipe, one tear at a time. I was reminded of the caregivers in our lives, often unsung heroes who carry the weight of our needs with patience and grace. If you’re blessed to have someone like that in your life, take a moment to thank them. They are living out the gospel in ways that might go unnoticed.
Becoming a Baby Again
At Christmas, we celebrate a baby who changed the world. And maybe, just maybe, part of the Christmas message is about us learning to embrace our own childlike dependence. Whether it’s relying on others for physical care or leaning on God for spiritual strength, becoming like a child isn’t something to resist—it’s something to embrace.
So, here I am, an old man at Christmas, finding joy in the mess and laughter in the humbling moments. And isn’t that the heart of the holiday? Finding light in the darkness, hope in the hardship, and love in the smallest acts of care.
Charlie Wear's Notes 
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