Christmas Morning at the O'Donnells

Here is a picture of the O'Donnell family Christmas tree taken early in the morning of 25 Dec 2008. The tree is lit and decorated beautifully, and in the foreground on the left you see the TV tray that was left for Santa, with some milk, cookies, and gifts. Proceeding from the fireplace to the right side of the tree are Santa's magic footprints and a few gifts he left for us.

Out of view, hung from a branch in the middle of tree, is a large iron nail, a gift from my vicarage supervisor eight years ago. Here, in the words of a lovely hymn, is the explanation for that nail:

What child is this, who laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the king,
Whom sheperds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary!

Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear; for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,
The cross be borne for me, for you;
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The babe, the son of Mary!

So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh;
Come, peasant king, to own Him.
The king of kings salvation brings;
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise the song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby;
Joy, joy, for Christ is born,
The babe, the son of Mary!