Original subtitles

Behold, the star that they had seen,

when it rose, went before them until it came to rest

over the place where the child was.

When they saw the star, they rejoiced,

exceedingly with great joy.

Thank you.

And going into the house,

they saw the child with Mary, his mother,

and they fell down and worshipped him.

Then, opening their treasures,

they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Now, when they departed,

behold, an angel of the Lord appeared.

? Silent night ?

? Holy night ?

? All is calm ?

? All is bright ?

? Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child ?

Morning, Sherman, Jr.

Hey, sis.

So, have you decided if you are coming home for Christmas yet?

Why do you insist on calling me first thing in the morning

when you know I am getting ready for work?

Well, one, because I know it bugs you.

And two, 'cause I know it's the best time to reach you

since, you know, you're so busy all the time.

I am very busy, thank you very much.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

So, hey, tell me you are coming home

so Mom and Dad will stop bugging me about it

and start bugging me about the moment

- you are gonna land. - Not this again.

I am already under enough pressure at work and...

Pressure? You are a star.

You have been nothing but a blessing to that place.

I was, but we're under new management now

with different expectations,

and I just... I don't really know them that well.

You don't have to worry about any of that.

You are the best columnist I know.

I'm the only columnist you know.

So? You're still the best.

And, hey, listen, I, uh,

really need your help with the Christmas play this year,

- so I was... - No, absolutely not.

You know I do not participate in that stuff anymore.

Oh, come on.

It'll be fun.

Be just like old times.

Well, that's exactly what I'm worried about.

I'm sorry Sherman, Jr., but that's a hard no from me.

Okay, okay, okay.

But you're still coming home, right?

Look, I'm running late and all of this Christmas talk

is giving me a stomachache.

I'm gonna have to call you back.

Okay, okay.

Hey, I love you, sis.

Hey, but if you don't call me back,

I'm gonna call you back every five minutes.

Hello?

Sarah?

? Jingle bells, jingle all the way ?

? Oh, what fun ?

- Morning. - Good morning.

Uh, Karen, what is going on here?

I go on assignment for two days

and come back to Candy Cane Lane.

I know, it's a nightmare.

It's the new VP.

Apparently he's all about Christmas

and wants us all in the Christmas spirit.

Brett.

Why are you wearing my favorite glasses?

I can't find mine.

Plus, I think I got the wrong prescription

'cause I don't even have a headache.

The audacity.

Anyway...

Why were you in a rush this morning?

- What do you mean? - Well, clearly,

you were in a rush.

You aren't wearing any makeup.

I am wearing makeup.

Mm.

No, she isn't.

And what is wrong with your hair?

I am a writer.

Nobody sees me...

- We see you. - We see you.

And I see that you haven't checked your email today either.

I have not had a chance to yet. Why?

Mr. Davenport sent out a memo saying that we're having

an emergency ugly Christmas sweater party.

- Today at lunch. - Yeah.

In order to write about Christmas,

we need to feel about Christmas.

Whatever that means.

Ugh.

- Who is this guy? - I know, right?

But back to you.

What are we going to do about this?

You are so lucky that I keep an emergency hair and makeup kit

for times like these.

Oh, geez.

Sarah.

Can you come in here for a minute?

- I need to speak with you. - Yeah.

Hey, you left your glasses at my house last night.

Just roll back to your desk.

Come on in.

Please, have a seat.

Sarah, I know we've never had the chance to formally meet,

but I have read your work and I'm a big fan.

Well, thank you very much, Mr. Davenport.

Ah, you can call me Nick, like good old St. Nick.

Better be good or you're gonna get coal.

I'm kidding, call me Mr. Davenport.

- Yes. - Sarah.

I asked you in here because I wanted to talk to you...

Yes?

Oh, great, the new cover sample?

- Sure is. - Great.

Thank you, perfect timing.

This is what I wanted to talk to you about.

The future of Force Magazine.

We are heading in a new direction

and I want you to spearhead it.

- Family... - Family Force.

Yes!

Okay, I admit, it doesn't have flare yet,

but that's why I wanted you to head the next two issues.

Christmas and New Year.

I don't... I don't quite know what to say.

Um, well, for years this magazine has been

about what's hot and, um, setting new trends,

and not necessarily family.

Sarah, the times are a-changing.

And we need to be at the forefront of that change.

Families are in.

How many kids do Kim and Kanye have?

I don't...

- Four! - Wow.

Will and Jada.

They're killing it on social media

with all their family vacations and working together.

Heck, even Prince William and Prince Harry,

they have their very own royal families.

Let's face it, a happy family

is the new designer bag and shoes.

Mr. Davenport, with all due respect,

I'm just not sure that I am the right person

to spearhead this new vision.

- Maybe Karen? - Your writing has gotten flat.

Flat?

It's lonely.

Nobody wants the proper feng shui for your living room

this time of year.

You know what they want?

They want snow.

They want Christmas cookies.

They want carolers.

Most importantly, they want family.

I really put my heart into those articles.

And I'm sure you'll put your heart in these next two.

Job depends on it, Sare-bear.

Sare-bear?

But I believe in you.

And as I said, I'm a big fan of your work.

I think you just need a little...

...inspiration.

You got seven days.

Make them count.

Go out there and find your inspiration.

Okay.

Oh, and check your email.

You still have time before lunch

to pick up your own sweater.

Right.

Great. Will do.

Great.

Okay.

Good talk.

Great talk.

Merry Christmas!

Can I help you find something, ma'am?

I'm okay, thanks.

Hey, how's it going?

I cannot believe this.

- Believe what? - My boss.

He just... he just... he wants us all in Christmas sweaters.

Um, okay, well, I won't keep you.

Um, I just finished building the last of the sets

for the Christmas plays.

Gonna take 'em to the church.

But the thing is, Mom and Dad are gonna be there

and I know they're gonna ask when you're coming and, um...

Sherman, please, no more of this.

Look, I'm under enough stress as it is, okay?

I have way too much going on at the magazine

to worry about coming home

and coming to your stupid Christmas play.

Well, that... I'm sorry, Miss Independent.

Look, um, we just miss having you around, that's all.

I know.

I'm sorry.

That rage was not meant for you.

Why does she always text like she's yelling at me?

Huh?

Hold on, hold on, one sec.

Look, look, I didn't mean to call your play stupid, okay?

I'm just really stressed.

I'm really sorry I said that.

I didn't mean it.

Hello?

Come on, Sherman, I said I'm sorry.

Hello?

Sherman? Sherman?

Oh my God... Sher... hello? Hello?

No!

No, no, no, no, no, no.

Come on, come on, come on, Mom, Mom, Mom, answer.

Come on, Dad, answer.

Answer the phone.

Answer.

I'm sorry.

Geez!

What do I do, what do I do, what do I do, what do I do?

Okay, all right.

Lord, please let him be okay.

What is it, Karen?

Sarah?

Mr. Davenport, I'm sorry.

No worries.

Hey, uh, you missed our lunch party.

When you, uh, left my office,

I didn't realize you were so eager

to get started on your research.

Is everything okay?

Uh, yes.

Um, well, no, not really.

I, um...

I... sorry, um, Mr. Davenport.

I don't... I don't really know.

You seem unsure.

If you want me to give the two spreads

to someone else I can, but I really wanted you on it.

No, no, I, um...

That's fine, I...

Look, I... I just... I had a family emergency

and so I just panicked and I got right on the road

- back to my hometown. - That's great.

I mean not the emergency part.

Nothing is more important than family.

And I hope everything is okay.

Maybe this is exactly what you needed.

Everything happens for a reason, Sarah.

Okay, um, well, thank you for understanding.

No problem.

Just make sure you deliver.

Remember, seven days.

Blow us away.

- And have a merry Christmas. - Okay.

Hi, I'm looking for Sherman Appleton, Jr.

He's on floor seven in room 721.

But I need you to sign in first.

Wait, please hold the elevator.

Hey.

You okay?

Yeah, thank you.

What floor?

Uh, seven.

Me too.

Excuse me.

Sarah.

- Hi. - Hi!

- Ow! Ow! - Ooh, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.

Oh, I just... oh my God, I thought that you...

No, hey, hey, hey.

I'm fine.

I'm fine, I'm just...

I'm just glad that my baby sister is finally here.

- Oh, honey, I'm so glad. - Honey, I'm so glad you're here.

Oh, look, she brought Jason too.

Hey, man.

- Hey, Jase. - Jason.

Jason, uh-huh.

He's pretty hot, huh?

Hey, I am so happy you're here.

I'm just sorry it's under these circumstances.

I'm just so happy you're all right.

When I couldn't reach you

and I just heard tires screeching

and I... I...

I just...

I'm so happy you're okay.

All right, I, uh,

I'm gonna get Junior's truck towed,

or whatever's left of it.

I'm pretty sure the whole thing is totaled.

- Totaled? - Yeah.

Dad, I had all the materials and parts

for the Christmas play sets in the back of my truck.

- Oh no. - Honey, I'm sorry.

I'm never gonna get everything ready

in time for the performance.

And those kids were really looking forward to it this year.

You know what they say about kids.

They're resilient, they bounce back.

- What? - We need to find a way

not to disappoint the children.

What we really need is for somebody to help.

You know, that's exactly what a best friend's for.

I'll rebuild the sets and do my best

to put the production together.

- Don't worry about. - I... I don't... I don't know.

I don't know, Jason.

I mean, I appreciate you stepping up and everything,

but you can't do all that work alone.

Hey, come on, don't worry about it, Sherm.

I'll ask Kate Marshall to help.

She's great with kids.

You know what, I have a great idea.

Sarah, why don't you help Jason?

Mom, that is a great idea.

That is a terrible idea.

- What? - Because...

No, I can't.

I have a deadline to meet

and I'm only here for a short time

to make sure that you are okay,

which you will be.

Besides, he says he's getting Kate, um,

Kate, uh, what's-her-face to help him,

so it'll be fine.

Kate what's-her-face.

What?

Um, I do remember a certain incident

with you and Kate what's-her-face.

You mean the encounter with the loose microphone cord.

Okay, I could have been seriously hurt that night

and all you guys did was just stand there and watch.

It just happened so fast.

I couldn't, you know...

I... I hit the ground really hard, so...

- Oh, honey. - It was really hard.

- You were fine. - The impact was massive.

All right, okay, guys.

We've teased enough, that's enough.

Hey, besides, that was a long time ago

and you bounced back.

I mean, look at you, you're a big time city girl now

with a big time magazine job.

What? I keep up.

I know what's happening in the world.

You got some really good articles.

Uh, you read?

I thought you were more of a picture kind of guy.

Very funny.

Yes, I read from time to time.

Most of your stuff is out of my league,

but for the most part it's pretty good.

I mean, Sarah, I think you're a great writer.

Um, thank you.

Oh, honey, um, make sure that you lock up

- at the church, okay? - Mm.

And I'm gonna stay here and make sure

that our baby's comfortable.

Yeah, all right, that's a good idea.

Hey, listen, Jason, can you meet me at Al's garage?

Maybe there's something we can salvage

from the back of the truck.

Yeah, and I'll bring everything I have over to the church hall.

- Great, thank you. - Oh, thank... thank you so much.

Ow, Dad!

I'm just joking.

I really appreciate it though.

Thanks, Dad, thank you.

All right, mama's boy, I'm outta here too.

Hey, honestly, thank you so much for coming to see me

and thank you for agreeing to help the kids.

They're gonna be so happy.

Don't worry about it.

Just rest up and get better.

All right.

So, uh, I know you are super busy,

but I sure hope you can stay for Christmas this year.

It's been so many years and, you know,

I... I really do miss you.

Um, I don't know, I... I haven't really had a chance

to pack anything or...

Honey, I'm sure there's plenty of clothes at the house.

And you can get your own clothes later.

You still have the key, don't you?

- Yes, I do. - Well, good. Okay.

Okay, I... I don't know about Christmas,

but I can stay a couple days.

Okay, but I should go now 'cause I really...

I need to start this article.

- Okay. - All right.

- Okay. - Love you, baby.

I'll see you soon, Shermanator.

Princess, thank you.

- All right. Bye, Mom. - Nice sweater, by the way.

Shut up.

I love that sweater.

Yeah, I'm sure you do love that sweater.

I'm sure you bought that sweater too, yeah.

Oh, you have got to be kidding me.

Happy holidays, ma'am.

Can I help you with something?

Yeah, my car... my... my... my car was just here.

It... it must have been stolen.

Now, hold on a second.

Did you park your car right here?

Yes, I parked it right here.

- Hm. - Hi, Sarah. What's going on?

Somebody stole my car.

- What? They did what? - Yeah.

No one stole your car, ma'am.

How do you know? It was right here.

I know because I had it towed.

You did what?

What? Calm down, ma'am.

Your car was in a no parking zone.

Oh.

Um, I'm sorry.

I'm a mess.

Uh, okay, you can call the guy and have him bring it back now.

No can do, ma'am.

Unfortunately, once the vehicle is off the premises,

- it's out of my control. - What?

What you're gonna wanna do is go down to the impound lot,

show 'em your driver's license, proof of insurance,

oof, and pay a nice little fee.

And you can do all that first thing Monday morning

when they open again.

Okay, give me the snack.

Give me the...

So, tell me, what were you going to do if you did catch him?

I don't know, but it was not gonna be pretty.

Hey, just try to relax.

It's Christmas.

I'm relaxed.

Why would you say I'm not relaxed?

Because you're doing that thing.

What thing?

The elbow tap.

You know, it's your "I'm gonna tell everyone else that I'm fine

but really I'm anxious" thing.

I'm right, aren't I?

Just drive.

Get me to my parents' house safely.

Whatever you say, ma'am.

Make Christmas Great Again?

Come on, Sarah.

Well, good morning, honey.

Morning.

You were quiet last night.

I didn't even hear you come in.

What's all this?

Breakfast. Ya hungry?

Come on.

I seem to remember you could put it away

better than your brother could.

Oh, ha-ha, you know I do not eat like that anymore.

Yeah, I know.

So, what... what are you working on?

Nothing, apparently.

I don't know, I'm having a very hard time

figuring out how to start this article.

Oh, well, what's it about?

Maybe I can help.

I don't know.

We're going in a new direction with the magazine,

and basically I have to change my entire writing style

- to fit the vision. - Ah.

- I see. - Yeah.

It's supposed to be about Christmas and family

- and all that. - Well, that's not so difficult.

I mean, just follow your mother around for an hour,

you got everything you want right there.

I know...

I know.

But, you know, it's supposed to be deep

and, um, I don't know.

Honestly, this time of year for me ever since I left

has been more about meeting deadlines

and closing out the year in the black than...

Family.

Yeah.

Well, no worries.

Why don't you tag along with me?

I've got some errands to run before I go back to the church

and maybe that'll get those juices flowing, huh?

Besides, I'd like to spend a little time

with my little pork chop.

It's a date.

Excellent.

This place has not changed.

Hey.

Brother Moore, how are ya?

Yes, oh, Sarah, I didn't know

you was coming home for Christmas.

Spontaneous visit.

You know what, I'm glad you guys are here.

They're starting to get a little restless.

- Oh, okay. - Well, all right,

looks like we made our deadline.

Oh, well, those I understand.

Yeah.

Well, I mean, this is our main priority,

making sure that we take care of these people right here.

These are the people that raised us, you know?

Took care of us when we were their bottom line.

Yeah.

Hey, you guys gonna just stand there

or you gonna put those hands to work?

- Okay, all right. - Okay.

Yes, sir.

Enjoying everything? Good.

Hey, Ms. Baxter, how are you?

Oh, good.

- How you doing? - Oh, good.

You know, as a little girl,

this time of year was the most precious.

We would sit around the fire,

my dad would tell us stories

and then give us piggyback rides throughout the house.

Let me tell you something, young lady,

this time of year's precious, so make the most of it.

You know, I wasted the best years of my life alone.

And you, ha, you're much too pretty.

You are.

Thank you, Ms. Baxter.

It's true.

It's nice to see you.

It's nice to be back.

- Yeah. - It is.

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.

This was great, Pastor.

And thanks again, Sarah, for helping out.

The more the merrier.

I was happy to be here.

We're happy to have you.

I'm glad you're back home, man.

I almost forgot.

I have to get back to the tree farm.

Business is probably picking up now.

- Oh, sure. - Go, go.

Yeah.

- Good to see you. - Merry Christmas.

- Thank you, Brother Moore. - Merry Christmas.

Okay, pork chop, you ready for round two?

- Round two? - Mm-hm.

I really need to get started on this article.

I already lost a day driving here.

It won't take that long.

I just have one more stop

before we have to get back to the church

and then you can lock yourself away in my office

for as long as you need to do what you need to do.

Deal?

- Deal. - All right.

That's my little girl.

Hey, Dad, where are we going?

I almost feel like a kid again saying that.

Well, it feels pretty good

to hear that voice calling me again.

Um, we're going over to Sister Grace's.

The cat lady?

You know, I forgot you kids used to call her that.

Yes, her.

She'll never admit it, but she's pretty lonely.

Your mother and I usually go over there

for... for a few minutes and visit and pray.

And, well, since your mother's at the hospital,

I get to bring the next best thing.

Oh.

And don't worry.

I never really see those cats anymore.

Oh my goodness!

Oh, Sarah, it's so good to see you.

It's good to see you.

Oh, baby girl, you are just a twig.

I almost didn't recognize you.

Pastor, you need to feed her.

She's just gonna disintegrate.

I've been trying.

Come on in, y'all.

Oh, no Mary Chase today?

No, not today.

She's at the hospital.

Oh, when I heard what happened...

How's that baby doing?

Well, he's, uh, he's pretty banged up,

but we believe he's gonna be just fine.

So how are you?

Oh, I'm fine.

You don't need to worry about me.

And, Sarah, the moment I saw your face,

it took me back to that time

that you, Junior, and Jason decided to run away from home.

Oh my God.

Oh my gosh, I remember... I remember that.

Oh, and you had your parents scared to death.

- We were absolutely terrified. - I'm sorry.

And Mary Chase, it didn't take her but a minute,

well, it wasn't even a minute.

She had an entire search and rescue team formed.

- Oh my God. - She really did.

And had a name for it and everything.

- Oh, what was the name? - Well, it was, uh, um...

The Children of the Lamb Search and Rescue Victory Team.

Oh my God, what?

What kind of name is that?

I know, I know.

Oh, gosh, I think it just...

it made her feel better at the time.

But your mother, I...

I gotta hand it to your mother.

I mean, she... she got flyers made and everything,

and in a matter of a couple of hours.

And you guys were missing for maybe three hours, tops.

Oh, it felt like we were gone for three days.

Missing?

Shoot, they were right here out back the whole time.

I know, you were there.

And we were all over the town looking for you.

Oh, gosh.

What... well, what made you think to come... to come over here?

Better yet, why did you even run away?

Well, firstly,

we wanted to be grownups really bad.

Thought we were gonna make our own world,

make our own rules.

I don't know, we walked here eight blocks,

which felt like 20 miles at the time,

and we came here 'cause Sister Grace had the lemon tree

and all the ju... stuff.

It was junk, baby, you can say it.

But first things first, Junior and Jason said,

we have to learn how to build a car.

- A car? - Yeah.

Really?

And my job was to make as much lemonade as possible

because we were gonna try and make money off of it.

Makes sense.

I was really just guilty by association, you know.

I mean, I was tagging along,

I was always following Junior around.

You kids were always gettin' in so much trouble back then.

I remember.

Oh.

But you know you were always good kids.

Man, thinking back on those times,

they were...

they were really good times.

And you guys were good kids.

Still are.

Sister Grace, this...

this has been very lovely, thank you.

Oh, it has been, Pastor.

Well, we have to make our way back to the church,

but before we go, why don't we pray?

So sorry to see you go.

Yeah.

Oh.

Oh, thank you, Pastor.

Have a joyous day.

I will.

You too.

Buh-bye.

What is it, sweetie?

Are you and Mom paying Sister Grace's bills?

Not exactly. The church is.

This town is our community.

Our village.

And we take care of each other in times of need.

It works both ways, you know.

Your mom and I were in need that time you kids ran away.

I mean, we were frantic.

Angry, scared.

Sister Grace called us

the moment she knew where you were.

And she urged us not to come right over.

She knew how angry we were,

how... how hot-headed we were,

and, well, she gave us some time to simmer down.

What'd she do for you?

She made us dinner and explained to us

how our actions made you feel.

Exactly.

She was there for you guys

and your mom and I at the same time.

Who knows how it would have impacted our relationship

if we'd come in there guns a-blazing, hot-headed.

I mean, I don't even wanna know,

but we don't have to because Sister Grace was there for us.

Yeah.

Hey, Sarah.

I didn't know you were in town.

Hey, Brother Thomas, how are you?

- Good, how are you? - Good.

Good. Have you seen your dad around?

I was just with him, I am headed to his office.

Will you do me a favor and give this to him?

- Sure thing. - Thanks.

- Have a good one. - You too.

Hey, bud.

Hi.

You're so sweet. What's your name?

This little guy's name is Trace.

- Ohh. - Yeah.

Any chance you're here to help me out?

Looks like you got all the help you need in here.

No, no, no, they're all just here to help

on Saturday mornings, but, you know, Monday morning

they're all back at work and then by Wednesday

no one's here to help with the rehearsal.

I'm sorry, that's too bad.

I do have a lot of work to get to myself.

Well, if it isn't Sarah Appleton.

Hi, Kate...

- Marshall, it's Kate Marshall. - Marshall.

Yes, of course.

- What? - What?

What is it?

- What? - Hm. Uh...

No, uh, oh, we were just, um...

Uh, never mind.

It's good to see you again.

You've lost so much weight.

Yep, sure have.

Kate, I was, uh, actually just trying to coerce Sarah

into helping us out with the Christmas program.

You know, the more the merrier.

Oh, you're serious?

Really?

I mean, I'm sure she has so many other things

to do while she's here.

I do actually.

I have that deadline.

So, I will just go get started on that

and leave you guys to it.

All right.

Really?

What?

She has other things to do.

What's going on?

Honey, you don't want to break your computer.

Don't let it get to you.

You're a wonderful writer.

You'll get it.

It's not that, Mom.

What is it?

It's...

Um...

It's nothing.

I thought you were gonna be at the hospital

with Junior all day.

I was, but I have a small group meeting

later at the house.

I know it can feel kind of strange

being back home after not being here for a while,

but just give it some time.

This town has a funny way

of giving your heart everything it needs.

Yeah.

I made some cookies for Junior, his favorite.

Do you want to take them to him?

I don't know, I really have a long ways to go

on this article.

Yeah, I can see that.

You know what I think you need?

You need to get out and get some fresh air.

Take a break.

Oh, honey, come here.

I love you so much.

It'll come to you.

Okay.

Cookies.

- Fine. - For Junior.

Okay.

For Junior.

Okay, all right.

See you later.

Bye, honey.

What's up, Sherm?

Hey, sis.

How are you feelin'?

Oh, can't complain, you know?

Oh.

Finally.

I have been waiting all year for these.

- Uh, do you think... - Uh, yes, I got it.

Yeah.

Can't really, you know...

I know, I know.

All right.

- Yes. - There you go.

Okay.

Mm.

Oh.

Mm-hm...

Mm-hm.

Oh, you want one?

No, thank you.

I try to stay away from as much sugar as I can.

Suit yourself.

So, how was your first day back home?

It was pretty good.

I spent most of the day hanging out with Dad.

Mm-hm.

So you saw Sister Grace then?

I did.

That woman has not changed.

She reminded me about that time

we tried to run away from home.

That was hilarious.

We... we actually thought we would build a car.

I do not know what we were thinking.

Hey, did you know that the church

is helping pay some of her bills?

Yeah, I did.

And not just hers, we're helping some other members too.

Oh, especially around this time of year.

I mean, isn't that a little bit kind of odd?

Odd? To help?

That's what the church is for.

Among other things.

Yeah.

Okay.

You probably can't use this in your article,

but it's something that you can carry with you.

Mm-hm.

Jesus came to us out of compassion.

That's the concern for the well-beings of others.

Which means He didn't have to, He wanted to.

And besides, what good is that money just sitting there?

And better yet, what good is using that money

to build a bigger, more beautiful church

if members like Sister Grace

can't even afford to warm her house?

Or Brother Ron can't afford new tires

to bring him and his family back and forth safe?

I completely understand that,

but what if they don't really need help?

I mean, I understand Sister Grace's condition,

but what if others are just taking advantage?

Or, worse, what if the church is enabling them

- not to even try... - Who are we to say?

Who are we to say? Hm?

We're here to do our part.

Okay, you, uh, you pay your taxes, right?

Yeah.

Okay.

And do you know what the government does

with every dollar that you pay back?

No.

I mean, like, in a way I kind of do, but...

Okay, that's not the point.

The point is, God trusts us to do our part.

It's not up to us to decide what their part is

or if they're doing everything they can.

And because of that, we show compassion.

I follow.

Okay, I gotta go.

- Really? - Yeah.

Mom's having group so I gotta try

to get some work done at the church.

Okay.

I love you, sis.

Love you, Sherm.

Hey, here, have a cookie.

They're good for you. Hm?

Okay, fine.

- Compassion. - Compassion.

- That's... - I got it.

- You got it? - I got it.

- Um... - Hi.

Sorry, I didn't, um,

I didn't know anybody else was here.

Yeah, I was just finishing up in the back.

Sarah, that was amazing.

What?

Me almost killing myself again?

I mean, everything except for that last part.

Hey, I'm kidding.

But, you know, we really could use your help with this program.

I mean, these kids would love to...

Jason, I...

This Christmas stuff, this, this holiday season,

it just really doesn't sit well with me.

Okay? I mean...

Literally, it makes me sick.

So, I just...

Is it because of what happened when we were kids?

Hey, I know the outcome of that night was bad.

I mean, terrible even.

But, come on, that was a long time ago,

and it was an accident.

You have to let it go.

I've tried,

but I just...

I mean, you just don't know what it was like to...

I don't know what it was like?

Do you remember what I used to look like?

Come on, I could see through walls

with the big Coke bottle glasses that I had to wear.

I didn't get my growth spurt

until freshman year...

of college.

And let's not even get into all the nose bleeds

that I would have.

I was made fun of

constantly.

Hey, just think about it, all right?

Don't focus on how you would feel

'cause all of that is gonna change

the second you see how these kids will feel.

Okay, I'll think about it.

- Great. - I said "think."

All right, thank you.

Yeah.

Good morning, church!

Good morning, Brother Ron.

Here at New Beginnings,

we like to take advantage of every chance we get

to celebrate each other,

so we wanna take a moment to greet each other

and let each other know that...

- You are loved and appreciated! - Right.

And be sure to speak to someone you may not know,

shake her hand, shake his hand.

Merry Christmas!

Knock 'em dead.

- All right. - Yeah.

? The God who sits above the clouds

? His love is faster than speed of sound ?

? Great God ?

? What a great God ?

? He hides the sun to bring light to rain ?

? He is all joy endured no pain ?

? Great God ?

? What a great God ?

? Infinite in wisdom ?

? Formed the whole world with His voice ?

? Deserves to be lifted up ?

? But He still gives us the choice ?

? Oh, Creator servant leader ?

? He's the one true King ?

? High and mighty in majesty ?

? Controls the seasons and limits the sea ?

- Great job. - Thank you, thank you.

- Good day. - So good to see you.

In Sunday school, we're cheating, we have the answers.

It's really just finding more information about the Bible,

so it's not really that bad.

Hey.

Well, look who's amazing.

I didn't know you could sing like that!

Well, your brother usually leads worship,

so your dad asked if I could help out.

Hey, I wanna introduce you to someone.

- Come with me. - Okay.

That was so wonderful, Jason!

- Um. - You were really letting

God use you.

Oh, okay, thank you.

Um, come on.

These are the wonderful children that we've been working with

for the Christmas program.

- Everyone, this is Sarah. - Hi, Sarah!

Sarah is Sherman Jr.'s sister,

and she is an amazing dancer.

Oh.

And maybe if we ask her nicely,

she would help us out

through the final push of the show.

Please, help us, please?

That is not fair!

You know, I was just telling Jason

that I would think about it,

and that was only last night.

- Ooh! - No, no, not like that.

Hey, guys,

we said we were gonna be nice

to Sarah.

Speaking of, we have another rehearsal on Wednesday.

Be great if you came out.

I will try to have an answer by then.

It was very nice to meet you all.

Bye, Sarah!

You know, we really can handle it.

I mean, we totally understand

you have a ton of other things to get done.

Um, okay.

Besides, we've already done a ton of hard work,

and we wouldn't want...

Oh, well, never mind.

We can handle it!

You know what?

I made up my mind.

I would love to help!

That's great, and you know what?

This is actually perfect because

you already know all the material.

- What do you mean? - Well,

it's the same show that we did in '93.

Yay!

- Eh! - Eh!

Oh!

There he is!

- Hi, buddy! - Hey, Chance!

Hi!

Oh, he's so cute!

- Hey! - Hey.

Well, I was beginning to worry about you guys.

Brother Moore, so good to see you.

You guys never wait this late to come get your tree.

I know, we've been so busy this Christmas season.

But we're excited to be here now!

Better late than pregnant.

Well, it looks like business is doin' really well around here.

Man, Jason and I haven't stopped loadin' up trucks

since we opened.

Good problem!

- Good problem. - Thanks.

- Thank you. - Have a merry Christmas.

- Yes. - I can't believe that.

- Jason, boy, you're everywhere! - Hey!

All right, boss, I just got the Millers all set up.

Hey, Sarah, did you, uh, get your car out yet?

Oh, my God!

I completely forgot.

What happened to your car, honey?

Uh, it's a long story,

but I need to go get it from the impound lot.

The impound lot?

We should get that out now because they charge by the day.

I know, I'm sorry, Mom.

Do you mind if we run out?

Of course she does!

Hey, Jason, why don't you take her?

Uh, yeah, okay, sure.

Are you sure?

Of course we're sure.

Just don't take too long.

We got a lot of work to finish around here.

Okay.

- Thank you, Jason. - I'll be back.

I got the perfect tree

- I wanna show you guys. - Okay, well,

you did well last year.

Hey, we're here to pick up that car for Sarah.

- Uh. - Do...

- I guess we just go back, or? - I guess.

- Okay. - Okay, yeah.

There she is!

There she is.

Op!

Okay, well,

thank you so much for your help.

Yeah, just, um.

Hey, what's goin' on, why'd you stop?

Yeah, I really thought I could make it to a gas station.

Don't worry about it, I got you.

So you literally just carry

extra gas in the back of your truck?

Well, it's actually for the church snow blower,

but, you know, I think we can spare a little.

See if she'll start up.

Yes!

All right, so what you're gonna wanna do,

just head down this road,

you're gonna run straight into the freeway,

and just...

- Thank you. - Yeah.

Thank you.

Uh, yeah, for, uh...

- I'll see you. - All right.

Good morning!

I made you some breakfast.

Oh, thank you!

You seem a little different this morning.

Yeah, I don't know, I just kinda woke up

and the juices were flowin'.

Well, then I won't interrupt!

But I must say,

I think this town is finding its way

back into your heart.

Oh, honey, um, your dad and I are gonna

decorate the Christmas tree later,

and we really would like it if you would join us.

I'd like that, too, Mom.

I gotta work on this first.

Okay.

Okay.

Oh!

Oh, honey!

Aw!

What's this for?

I don't know.

Just because.

Mm.

I guess your article's going pretty well, huh?

- It is! - Ah!

Still got a long ways to go, but it's comin' along.

Good!

Oh, those cookies smell so good.

It's 'cause you haven't eaten

- all day, missy! - Yeah.

Do you want me to whip somethin' up for you?

No, thanks.

I'm supposed to meet Kate and Jason

at the Barnyard in an hour.

What?

He likes you, you know?

- No. - Yeah!

He always has!

You know, those glasses he wore

made his eyeballs look so big.

They looked like two swimming pools filled with water

the night you fell off that stage.

- You like him too. - Mom!

Honey, it's okay!

You're gonna get your work done.

Okay?

Maybe, maybe this is the inspiration that you found.

You're not gonna wear that, are you?

I'm gonna shower!

It's just the Barnyard, sheesh.

Okay.

- You gonna wear that? - No, I'm not gonna wear this.

I don't think she's been to the Barnyard in a few years.

I know!

Reservation under Jason.

- Hey! - Hey.

This is not how I remember this place.

Um, I thought you knew.

Yeah, they made some renovations a few years back.

Oh, oh.

Uh, where's Kate?

Is she running late?

Uh, Kate had to cancel.

Kate was never coming, huh?

No.

I mean, she was,

but she did have to cancel,

but that was before that I told you that we were meeting,

and that meeting was

gonna be at the church.

So, what are we doing here?

Well, I did wanna get you all caught up.

And I figured since you're only in town for a few days,

that I would take you somewhere that's

not the church or the hospital.

Ravishing.

- Hm? Hm? - Hm? What?

Oh, I said I'm starving.

Oh, great, let's order.

Man, that was really good.

Yeah.

Thank you.

So, you are a handyman,

a tree farmer,

somewhat of a mechanic...

Because I had gas?

...singer,

musician,

you seem to like kids,

and at least from the outside,

you appear to love Jesus.

Oh, appear?

Yes, appear.

So, how are you still single?

Wait, are you single?

Depends on who's asking.

Oh, no, I, I was...

No, I, I was kidding.

Um, yes, I'm single.

Uh, why?

I don't know.

Guess I'm not in a hurry to be with someone just because.

You know, I get that I'm good-looking, whatever, now,

but I didn't always used to look like this.

Wow, conceited.

No, no, no, that's, that is not what I mean.

All right, what I'm tryin' to say is that

I've had a lot of time to see people's true nature.

Like all of a sudden I'm some sort of catch,

but I'm the same person that I always have been.

That's superficial.

I want, uh...

...I want something real.

Um, the gas.

- The, the gas? - Yes, the gas

and the rides back and forth.

Let me repay you for, you know, taking care of me.

All I ever wanted to do is take care of you.

Jason?

Uh, don't worry about it.

You're repaying me more than enough

by helping me out with this program, so.

Come on.

There's gotta be something else.

Well, there is this one thing.

What is it?

Not now, no, you're gonna have to wait for that.

- Really? - Yup.

Let's just do this first.

Do you have any more questions about the program?

No.

I think I'm all caught up.

- Hey. - Hi.

- Okay. - All right.

Well, hey, guys and girls!

We are down to our last few rehearsals before the show,

so tonight I wanna see a lot of energy,

focus, and a lot of smiles,

a lot of big smiles.

Yes, let's make tonight count, okay?

And, uh, let's also try not to mess anything up.

Also, Friday is our dress rehearsal and cast party!

- Woo-hoo! - Woo!

Oh, and before I forget,

I wanna give a warm welcome to Sarah

who's gonna help us finish strong.

Hey, guys!

Kate, would you lead us through a prayer

for today's rehearsal?

Sure.

Let's bow our heads.

Dear, God,

have Your way with us tonight,

both the children and the leaders.

We may not always understand Your plan

or why things happen,

and even though some of us are underprepared

and unqualified,

we ask that Your will be done and not our own.

In Jesus' name we pray,

amen.

- Amen. - Amen.

Okay, let's get to work.

Yay, come on, come on, come on, come on.

Here we go, all right, all right, all right.

All right, good night!

Good job today!

What the? What are you doing?

I'm doing what I should have done a long time ago!

No, no, no, that's unacceptable!

Have you lost your...

Sarah.

Oh, no, no.

Are you kidding me?

Sarah!

Sarah, come on, no!

What's going on?

- It's your brother. - Is he okay?

- Uh, just, uh, get in the car. - What?

- We'll tell you on the way. - Hurry!

Dad, what is going on, you're scaring me.

Something went wrong with your brother's surgery.

They think he has a torn artery, but they're not sure.

They may have to amputate his leg.

They are not cutting off my son's leg!

Honey, honey!

Can you please just sit down

and relax?

Hey, you two.

Morning.

- Oh, thanks, babe. - Here you go, here you go.

- Oh, thanks. - You're welcome.

Is junior okay?

Uh, they're not sure yet.

He's still in surgery.

Oh, honey.

I know, I know, we just have to

keep praying for him.

- Yeah. - Yeah.

Okay? All right.

I should take this.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Merry Christmas!

I hope all is well.

So, uh, we went ahead

and hired some models for the family photo shoot,

and we need you back here for that on Friday.

But it's just for the day to coordinate the shoot,

and then you'll be off for the rest of the holidays.

So let me know when you make it back in town.

Thanks.

Who was that, honey?

It's my boss.

He wants me to come back for a photoshoot tomorrow.

So you're gonna miss Christmas?

I mean, it's just for one day,

but... I mean, no, I'm not gonna go, no.

I'm, I'm not gonna go.

No, if it's only for one day, I think you should go

handle your business.

We're okay here.

We'll take care of your brother,

but we support you, too, honey.

So, go,

- do what you need to do. - Okay.

And get back here as soon as you can.

I love you.

- Okay. - Okay.

Hey, Sarah, you ran off so quick last night.

I don't have time for this right now.

- I'm not sure what you... - I know what I saw.

Come on, look, it's not what you think that it is.

Don't, don't go, please?

Sarah?

Are you okay?

You don't seem like yourself.

Um,

yeah, my mind is all over the place.

I just,

I just gotta get this done.

Sarah!

So good to see ya back!

Wow, look at this!

Man, I love it, family force!

Can't wait to get my hands on that article.

You have it with ya?

Um...

- Is that it? - No!

No, no, it's not, um.

Look, I've been meaning to speak to you about that.

Um, my brother's condition has gotten a lot worse,

and I just, I haven't had...

Sarah.

you've been giving me nothing but excuses

since I gave you this assignment.

No!

No, I...

Yeah, no, you're right, um.

No more excuses.

I just, I need one more day.

I'll give you one

more day.

Tomorrow, midnight.

Only because

it's too late to replace you.

Thank you, Mr. Davenport, I won't let you down.

Miss this deadline, don't come back.

All right, come on, let's just get back to work.

Ms. Kate, Ms. Kate,

I ripped it.

- Oh, wow! - Hey, buddy,

just give it to us and we're gonna take care of it,

- all right? - Here.

Where is Sarah?

Is she always this late?

Oh, now you want her help?

She'll be here, don't worry about it.

No! No, no, no, no, no!

Hey, April, no!

All right, you guys are doin' great.

This is wonderful.

Um, when we do our pirouettes, remember,

big arms, boom, yeah.

Really stretch it out.

and then a very slow, gentle turn.

Yes,.

Good job, girls, I'm so proud of you.

And, go!

And...

Okay, we're all gonna sit quiet, hands in our lap.

Just getting ready for our special treat!

- Hey, guys, here we go! - Pizza!

- Pizza! - Pizza!

- Pass these out. - Yes, absolutely.

All right.

Hey, Mr. Jason,

where's Sarah?

Yeah, where is Sarah?

Thought we could count on her?

Yeah, I wanted to show her that I finally got the move

and that her secret really worked.

Um, I don't know where she is,

but, you know, her brother had some complications,

so maybe she's with him.

Whatever it is, let's just hope that she's okay.

Hey, you guys did a really great job today,

and that's all that matters.

Let's keep that momentum going all the way into Sunday, okay?

All right, let's get this pizza.

Here we go, here we go, hold still.

I missed it.

Yeah, you did.

How'd it go?

Jason.

Jason.

Okay, I really don't have time for this

- right now. - Yeah, you've made that clear.

Seriously?

Yeah, I'm serious.

You bailed on us!

Bailed?

No.

No, see, I, I have a job

that I am barely hanging onto right now.

And, in case you don't remember,

my brother is in the hospital,

and his condition is getting worse.

So, no, I'm sorry,

I don't have time to play this game with you

where you get to have your cake and eat it too.

What? Is this about that kiss?

- Ugh. - Because she kissed me.

And I made it very clear to her that what she did

- was unacceptable. - Whatever!

But I'm talking about the kids!

And Sarah, they look up to you!

When they see you, they see a future

that doesn't end in this small town.

Okay, I get that you have other responsibilities,

but you made a commitment to these kids

and then you just didn't show up

because you think I have a thing for Kate?

That is not why I didn't show up.

Whatever the reason,

they were counting on you.

Gosh!

You know why we go all out for Christmas?

Okay, I do not need another lecture right now.

We go all out because His birth

means a new beginning.

His birth makes way for our mistakes

to be forgiven,

we get another chance

if we want it.

Do right by these kids, Sarah.

Okay.

You're right, I'm sorry.

- I don't just... - You know, the other day

when you asked me what you could do for me?

Yeah.

The only thing that I've ever wanted from you

was to be seen.

When we were little kids, I made a promise to myself

that I would never let you fall again.

So the other night,

that was serendipitous for me.

Hey, lock up when you leave.

So far, everything is goin' well.

We're lettin' the swelling go down a bit

before we have to go in for one last time.

Now this surgery determines everything.

Okay.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Being home has been

so chaotic.

I mean, rushing home not knowing what happened to you.

But you're gonna pull through.

You're a fighter.

You're the Shermanator.

I mean, you taught me how to be strong.

You know, I didn't come home expecting to,

to learn anything,

and I definitely didn't expect to

fall in, I don't know,

like with Jason, but,

but I did.

And if I didn't know any better,

I'd think that you had somethin' to do with all that.

You always had a clever way of teaching me a lesson.

But, I want you to know that I got it.

Okay, I'm good.

My mind is clear, and, uh,

and I finally feel like I understand this,

I don't know, this dance.

It's time.

Wow!

Hey, guys!

Anybody know how to work the music in here?

'Cause I'm all thumbs when it comes to this stuff.

Thanks, guys... Hey, there is some hot chocolate

and breakfast back there.

Go grab it before all the adults get it!

Wow!

You really outdid yourself with this one.

I mean, I was not expecting

this.

Well, I know it doesn't make up for not being here last night,

but I wanted to at least take off some of today's pressures.

No, this is huge.

Thank you.

No, thank you.

You really helped me see clearly

and see you clearly.

Is Kate coming?

She'll be here, she has to pick up a robe first.

Darn.

It's easy to think we've gotten so caught up

in lavish lifestyles,

social media posts, and celebrity status

because, well, we have.

This year has been about capturing the moment,

any moment, and making it appear perfect

rather than focusing in on the things

that truly hold value.

For many, the Christmas season is nothing more

than meeting deadlines,

finishing the year out strong,

and finally making it to that last store

before closing time.

But what are we left with when all that passes?

Somehow, we've come to believe that Christmas tradition

equates to cheesy, dated memories

that no longer have meaning in our current lives.

Behold!

We seem to have forgotten what is wrapped up

in that tradition,

love and compassion,

not some forced deed that requires an Instagram snapshot

to prove that it's real,

but genuine compassion,

real concern for others,

willing to give our last,

not because we had to,

but because we wanted to.

Our communities have been our village

and family, and that's also wrapped in that tradition.

We took care of each other, no questions asked

because we were, and still are,

each others' bottom line.

- Hey, thanks for... - Shh!

Okay, look, I don't know what your problem is with me,

but it would be really nice if you could just act like an adult

and talk to me about it.

Fine!

Ever since we were kids,

you have had everything, okay?

The perfect family, the perfect upbringing,

now the perfect job,

and you got the guy.

And let's not forget you can dance!

Yet, all you do is complain.

All I have is dance, and the once chance I got

to showcase my talent,

you ruined it.

I have put in so much work with those girls,

and you come back, and they just

- plug you right in, and... - Hey.

I've been looking all over for you two.

- What's wrong? - The twins, they,

- they can't go on. - What? Why?

I don't know if it's their nerves,

or the flu, but they've been in the bathroom

puking up everything that they've eaten

- all week. - Oh, my goodness.

What are we going to do?

Um.

We could go on.

Uh, uh, okay, okay, we can do it.

Do you still know the dance?

Yeah, of course she does.

I watched her do it the other night.

Sarah?

Sarah!

Okay, fine, whatever, I'll just do it myself.

Um.

Sarah, listen.

You can do this.

There's nothing standing in your way.

I'm here for you.

I'll never let you fall.

Mm-hmm.

Okay.

? Silent night ?

? Holy night ?

? All is calm ?

? All is bright ?

? 'Round yon Virgin

? Mother and Child ?

? Holy infant so

? tender and mild ?

? Sleep in

? heavenly peace ?

? Sleep in heavenly peace ?

Christmas tradition may just seem like

fresh-baked cookies,

children singing,

and overly-decorated Christmas sweaters,

but this tradition means so much more.

It is one of love, and compassion.

It causes us to create a legacy

that will not only spill out into the new year,

but also for generations to come.

That tree looks amazing!

- We got it from... - Hey!

There she is!

- Our shining star! - You nailed it!

- The big star. - You nailed it.

Oh, honey, I can't believe you remembered that choreography.

- I don't know how I did it. - Did you even have time

- to practice that? - Amazing, it was perfect!

And the whole church looked amazing.

Everything was set up so beautifully.

- Yeah. - Yeah, it was a big deal.

We were able to get a lot of stuff done without you.

Oh, yeah, thanks, thanks...

- Well, come on, let's go. - Oh, it's chilly!

- Unbelievable. - Come on, sweetie.

- Sarah, you, you... - Actually,

I am going to hang back just a little bit.

I'll meet you guys at home?

- Okay. - Okay.

- We'll see you there. - Okay, all right.

All right.

See you at home, though, right?

Yes, absolutely, I will see you at home.

- Bye, sis. - Happy you're home.

I love you, you're amazing.

- I love you. - Amazing.

- Okay. - Our tiny dancer.

All right.

Father.

She was amazing, and she didn't fall this time.

No.

I told you,

I would never let you fall.

Giving your heart everything it needs

rather than rushing through the season

capturing pseudo-moments that will quickly fade away.

Bravo, Sarah Appleton.

Bravo.