Day 2 The Christmas Thief: An Advent Calendar in Prose

 

The Christmas Thief

An Advent Calendar in Prose

Day 2

In the darkness of the early morning, Barnaby slipped into Apt. 3A. The old brownstones had been cut into apartments back in the ‘20s when times were good. There were three apartments in the building, one on each floor, and Barnaby, blessed with dark hair, dark eyes, and a swarthy complexion, natural camouflage for the night, blended easily into the shadows. 

As I always say, why not start at the top? Nice of these old places to have such well-kept fire escapes. He traced a circle with his glass cutter, suctioned it out, wiggled two long fingers inside to open the lock, and slipped through the window. 

Hardly a squeak. A sleeping cat on an ottoman ignored him. 

3A was filled with antique furniture and Persian carpets. Gliding through the living room, he loaded his bag with crystal, clocks, and a shimmering silver tea set. The apartment was lavishly decorated for the holiday. Barnaby added several wrapped packages hidden in a hall closet to his bag. 

Good things come in small packages, I always say.  He helped himself to a chocolate before stepping out the window and gliding down the fire escape to 2A.

Here the pickings were even better. The apartment was empty. Sheets covered most of the furniture. Occupants taking a winter vacation in some sunny clime. Barnaby found a coin and stamp collection. 

Saves me the trouble of collecting them myself. The plush carpet muffled his steps as he slipped these in on top of the silver tea set and cushioned it all with an antique lace tablecloth. He took the silver candlesticks from the windows, leaving the candles, and pocketed a crystal star hanging in the front window.

Might as well check out the basement and make a clean sweep of it. 

Be Open to God’s Call: Luke 1: 46-55  

And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name. 

His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.

He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.

He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” (NIV)

Challenge: Where do you keep your treasures? Mary treasured the word and promises of God. These are treasures that cannot be stolen away. Which of God’s promises (mercy, holiness, safety, loving care) speaks to you? Focus on that promise today. Store his treasures in your heart.