One huge tradition that happens during this time of the year is kicking back and watching those classic Christmas movies. It’s awesome because we get to see Buddy the Elf discover New York again. We also get to see Harry and Marv get hit with paint cans one more time. And one of my favorite films out of this bunch is, “a Charlie Brown Christmas.” But did you know that there is one part in this movie you probably never noticed?
If you ever watched many cartoons you will notice that they always wear the same outfit. This is because there could be many artists drawing the same cartoon. Also since some of the character’s body shapes are drawn the same, it could be confusing to the audience. With Charlie Brown, he is always seen with his yellow polo shirt with the unique black stripe. Linus is also known for his blue blanket which he carries everywhere he goes. This blanket is a security blanket for Linus, it helps him feel protected and less afraid.
During the rehearsal for the Christmas play, Charlie Brown throws up his hands and declares, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” Linus begins to quote Luke 2:8-14. This is the passage where the Angels tell the shepherds that Christ has been born. Linus always carries around his blanket yet when quoting the words, “Fear not,” he drops it.
Jason Soroski, a writer for Crosswalk.com, is the who points this out. He declares that, “The birth of Jesus separates us from our fears[1].” I think Charles Schulz added some meaning here. Something about the message of Christ causes us to be fearless. It is motivation to live a life of purpose.
Just as the shepherds were told, “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” so are we called to a life free from fear (Luke 2:11). What is Christmas all about? Christ, it is a timeless message of a freedom. It is a message to all people. We are to be like Linus and let go of our fears.
[1] Soroski, Jason. “Just Drop the Blanket: The Moment You Never Noticed in A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Crosswalk.com. Cross Walk, 14 Dec. 2015. Web. 27 Nov. 2016.