And everyone went to their own town to register.

Luke was not talking about going to the nearest retail outlet to register for gifts wanted, but not needed. In Chapter 2 in the New International Version of the Bible, Luke wrote about a census of the entire Roman world, as requested by Caesar Augustus.

As Christians know, Luke 2:1-20 tells the story of the birth of Jesus. Even those less religious have been exposed to a portion of this passage if they’ve tuned into the annual classic of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” as Linus offers a soliloquy on the “true meaning of Christmas, Charlie Brown.” Still my favorite part of the Schulz-home tradition. (No, sadly, we are not related to Charles M. Schulz, Peanuts creator.)

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

One of the most powerful stories ever told, of one of the most influential people ever to walk the face of this earth and beyond, but it started with the most-humble of origins.

In my eyes he was, and still is, the most powerful world leader, and he was born in a bed of straw, surrounded by animals. That may be why farmers, and livestock producers specifically, have such a close connection with a higher being.

Farmers know they rely on the Good Lord for providing for them. Those who work the land and have dominion over God’s creatures have to believe in something, lest they have the pomposity that their success is all their doing. Sure, we can’t just load up the barn with weanlings and expect God to take over. God gives each and every one of us a talent and purpose, and your talent is to be caretaker of the animals under your watch.

While your city cousins are possibly able to entirely relax for this holiday weekend, you will mix in family time with chore time. Your job as caretaker does not take off holiday weekends. Pigs do not stop eating, sows do not hold off on farrowing until Boxing Day, and there may even be equipment breakdowns because fan and feedline controllers don’t have holidays designated in their memory chips.

The hustle and bustle of the holidays are wonderful, and being with family is great, but don’t let it consume you to lose sight of the real prize. While you gather with loved ones and friends this weekend, take some time and look around at all your blessings, and remember those who have passed.

Don’t get caught up in all the hysteria and hub-bub the Christmas season has become. Pause to remember the real reason for the season.

And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men.

That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.