The Linus Monologue

By Carol Roberts

Yesterday I spent some time watching some Christmas shows.  One I watched was “A Charlie Brown Christmas”.  While I was watching it, I couldn’t help but think what a genius Charles Schultz was when he wrote this show.

The writing, the humor and the various messages that come through in this 25-minute animated show are truly remarkable.

My favorite part of the program is when Charlie Brown is discouraged and says, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”

And Linus replies:

“Sure Charlie Brown.  I can tell you what Christmas is all about.  (Linus quietly walks to the center of the stage and says “Lights please”. He then he delivers this famous monologue:

^“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  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, good will toward men’.”

Then Linus quietly walks back to Charlie Brown and says, “That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”

I can’t help but think that Charles Schultz let God, the Creator, work through him to create this 25-minute cartoon.  A cartoon that first came out in 1965 when I was two years old.  And I have probably watched or tried to watch this cartoon at least once every year since I was two years old.

Linus’ delivery was so matter of fact.  It was quiet.  He didn’t have to yell.  He didn’t have to get in anyone’s face.  He walked forward and shared the story…the story of shepherds and angels and a baby born in a manger.  And the message from the heavenly hosts saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men”.

This is what Christmas is all about.

Glory to God.

Peace on earth.

Good will toward men.

Do you ever take time to think about the answer to Charlie Brown’s questions, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” 

If you were to give Charlie Brown an answer, what would it be?  Share you answers in the comments below or email us at [email protected].