For Juliet (sung by Cheryl Greene) and Lucy (sung by Teresa Batson), who might have stepped right out of Cinderella’s chateau, love is worthless and contentment means catching a spectacularly wealthy husband, each leaving her other sisters behind in their poverty.

But for Sophie (sung by Hollie Swofford) contentment is found in caring for others. While the sisters have no heat, no food, nor any way of obtaining those things, St. Nicholas (sung by Bruce Schoonmaker) has a plan. Each girl is to receive a gold coin for Christmas, and St. Nicholas will observe how each uses her coin to gain the desires of her heart.

As the background echoes with the sounds of our Christmas blessings dearly bought and freely given, the two sisters who have used their gold on finery to attract a rich husband, demonstrate that they have no idea of what a blessing truly is, and will never be content. No matter how much they have, still they want more.

Meanwhile, Sophie has given her gold to two travelers named Mary and Joseph so that they can buy food and shelter, for Mary is about to deliver a baby. While two of the sisters jealously fight for riches and position, Jesus, the Son of God, is born, content to leave behind his riches and glory to be born on earth; content to be laid in a manger of hay. Such is the nature of love.

The Community Chorus Christmas concert, proceeds of which fund Rotary Club’s college scholarships for high school students in Polk County, will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9 at the Polk County High School auditorium. Tickets are available from Rotarians, local merchants, chorus members and at the door. Student admission is free.

– article submitted by Julie Threlfall