I love the Anglican liturgy and this phrase is one we say before every communion. After you have heard the liturgy often, it travels with you. Like Hemingway’s Paris, it is a moveable feast.

Years ago, Stephen wrote about a boy named Igor. Igor was one of the first street kids we came to know. He wanted to learn English, so we had English lessons in the street and later, we studied the Bible together. We always had a positive relationship with Igor and he truly tried to change his life. He had been to Juvenile detention many times, maybe twenty but I am not sure about that.

Time separated us and when we next saw Igor sporting two new tattoos over his eyebrows, he admitted that he was not in a good place. We thought of him often and prayed for him often, as well.

Years past and last week, a friendly young man greeted us as we walked home. It was Igor, healthy and strong with an open and happy face. Hugs were exchanged. He is much better now, stable, working, and free from crime and it shows.

Seeing Igor is a lovely Christmas gift and one that was a true surprise. That phrase, “the gifts of God for the people of God” keeps tumbling through my mind.

Merry Christmas to Igor and to you, too!