Thanks, Sean, for a thoughtful commentary. I attended the discussion between Christopher Ricks and Sean Wilentz at the Philoctetes Center here in Manhattan recently. Both men respectfully acknowledged Bob's belief in God while disclaiming such belief for themselves. Faith is an invitation and many of the songs speak to that as well. "Do you hear what I hear?" is one faith-fiilled person beckoning another to listen. The drummer boy is asked to come to the manger; the wise men travel from afar having responded in faith to a cosmic sign; silver bells announce the news and direct our attention, albeit obliquely, to this holy day. The angels say 'Hark!' and so does Bob. Pay attention to this feast and feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, bury the dead... It's all or nothing. Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday, the great trifecta. Merry Christmas to one and all.