15 Days to Christmas, Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025

“Must-Have’s”

Charlie Brown Christmas turns 60 years old today.  The animated special remains a holiday favorite for millions. In fact, it is the longest-running animated Christmas special of all time, which says something about its importance in our lives.

When it first aired in 1965, nearly half of all televisions in America were tuned in. Can you imagine that? A 50% audience share! And yet, it wasn’t even the most-watched show of the evening—the western Bonanza actually beat it out.

On a modest budget of just $76,000, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Snoopy, Linus, and friends danced and sang into our hearts. But it nearly never happened. CBS executives weren’t sold on the idea and weren’t sure the show would succeed. Thankfully, their biggest sponsor (Coca-Cola) believed in it, and because of that encouragement, the special made it to air.

What would the holidays look like today if Charlie Brown Christmas had never aired?  Would schools still host holiday pageants every year? Would we know the meaning of “AAUGH!”? Would we still hear Linus recite Luke 2:8-14, and remind us what Christmas is really all about?

One of the fascinating things about the holidays is how new traditions continue to join our lives. Without even realizing it, new songs, shows, foods, drinks, and shared moments quietly wiggle their way into our hearts, hoping to find a permanent place there for years to come.

What is your holiday must-have?  Do you have more than one?

This season, try something just a little different with those favorite traditions. When you enjoy them, take a moment to thank God for the feelings, memories, and joy they bring. Recognizing God’s hand in those moments may make them even sweeter, after all,

“...The angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”  (Luke 2:10, KJV)