Although numerous traditions surround the celebration of Christmas, one that is a favorite of many families is the nativity scene. It is designed to show the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, and many people revisit that event year after year.
Although nativity scenes exist in many areas, there is one that is special to many people. It is a nativity scene in which a stray dog came in, curled up with a baby in a manger and fell asleep.
It happened in 2008 or 2009, and since that time, the pictures that were taken of that scene have been circulating on the Internet. For many people, it reminds them of their own belief about Christmas and to keep things in perspective.
There are not many details that surround this particular scene, but there is something that should be clear to all of us. When we look at the comfort that this dog found, it may remind us of our own need to seek comfort as well.
This is a somewhat old story, but it has been circulating online for approximately eight years. People tend to pass the photos around as Christmas time nears.
It took place in Criciuma, a town located in Santa Catarin, Brazil. When the locals went to look at the nativity scene, they saw something unexpected in the manger with the baby.
It was a stray puppy who had crawled up with the baby and was sleeping quite peaceably.
Interestingly, the stray dog was a German Shepherd and as you may recall, Jesus is also referred to as a shepherd in the Scriptures.
Nobody knows what happened to this stray, although it is assumed that someone took him into their home. It should remind all of us that on Christmas, as well as on any day of the year, there are many animals who do not have homes.
The numbers in the United States are somewhat startling. Approximately 6 million dogs and cats enter into animal shelters on an annual basis. There are millions of other animals who are out in the cold, fending for themselves and trying to find food and warmth.
Many people consider Christmas to be a time of compassion, kindness and love. It is important to remember our animal friends at this time of year.
Of course, we should keep the animals in mind at all times of the year but when the weather gets cold outside, they deserve our special consideration.
(Images: Blogspot/Alcateia)
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