Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs to God. Colossians 3:16

As a child, my mother was the one who took me to Sunday School and worship. Then she made sure I knew Jesus’ teachings were not just for Sunday. My Mom was a peace keeper, and she made sure her middle daughter understood that Jesus lived outside the church. I was not overly fond of her methods at times. I was expected to be the girl who was nice to the girls that no one else liked and to always speak kindly. Her mantra was “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” I am still trying to master that instruction!  

When I was 38, my Mom died. She was only 74, an age that seems younger to me with each passing year. The greatest gift she gave to me was telling me in her last year that I had done a good job raising Robby and Christie.  

My favorite Christmas carol is Angels from the Realms of Glory. The carol tells the story of Christmas and then invites the singer and listener to “Come and worship Christ, the newborn King!” I love it because when I hear the melody, I close my eyes and can see and hear my Mom standing next to me at our small Presbyterian church in Ohio. Her voice is clear and strong and for just a little while she is with me again. 

May the blessings of Christmas this year and the memories of Christmases past be yours in hearing the glorious music of the season. 

Debbie Kocisko

About the Contributor

Debbie Kocisko joined FPC in 1991. She has sung in choral groups since she was a child. Debbie is a member of both the Chancel Choir and the Chamber Singers.