---

He hung from the cross all bruised and torn
All our sins on that day our Lord Jesus had worn
He knew why he came; he knew what he had to do
He did it out of love for me and for you
He took all our pain on that day
Words of love is all he'd say
Father forgive them Jesus said
Then on that day for our lives he bled!

Hannah Dumas
NSW Australia
 

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WE SHOULD HAVE BEEN

Jesus Christ is the only one, our Savior and King
Died on the rugged cross for our wickedness and sins
He came down to this earth to purified our souls
Those blood drops he shed at Calvary are something to behold.

We should have been the ones, they captured that night
But Jesus undertook our place without even a fight
He could have escaped from that accusers throng
But the Love he had in his heart was too deep and strong.

We should have been there when justice was done
But Jesus took our stand and listened as they shouted CRUCIFIED HIM in angry tones
The Roman soldiers spit on him and whipped him till he bled
His skin hung like long ribbons torn and bright red.

We should have been the ones, they drove nails through hands and feet
But Jesus was the one who bore the pain for you and me
Even tired and in agony he walked to that place
Where they crucified him with hatred and smirks on their face!

We should have been the ones they hung upon that cross
But Jesus Christ gives his life, so we wouldn't be lost
The blood drops he shed that day were imprinted with Love
More priceless than gold are those blood drops of Love.

Jesus forgive our transgressions in my heart I pray
Hold us in your Loving arms than we wouldn't go astray
Teach us to be grateful for the blood drops you shed
Because, we should have be the ones to have suffered that anguish instead.

Rosalene Wurtz
 

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Author’s Note: This poem is simply the author’s imaginings of what might have been in the Savior’s
heart and mind that fateful night in the garden.

GETHSEMANE, His possible thoughts
(because even though He was God, He was also human)

by Lanette Kissel
Evansville, IN

Part One: My time on earth so short
Father, have I ever been one
since my mission here began
to question or to doubt You,
or find fault with Your master plan?
But, I have only had a few short years
to preach and to teach.
There are so many more of your children
I was hoping to reach.
And what of the parables
that are yet to be told,
that could bring more lost sheep
into Your loving fold?
Is there no more time on earth
remaining for Your Son,
When it seems like my work here
had only just begun?

My time on earth so short…
Must I so soon depart?
Yet, not me…but Thee!


Part Two: And what of the dear twelve?

And what of the dear twelve
who accompany me along this path?
Will they be scattered to the ends of the earth,
after the blood bath?
Those who, at my request,
could not even watch and wait,
but instead, preferring sleep,
left me alone to face my fate.
Will they still believe what I told them
and all that they’ve been taught?
Or will their minds be filled with doubt,
their lives with peril fraught?
When they can no longer see
their teacher and their friend...
When their tender faith is tested,
how will their stories end?

Will the twelve abandon me?
Will all my friends forsake me?
Yet, not mine…but Thine!


Part Three: What You require of me.

Though often fraught with problems
and filled with human strife,
I find I have come to value
this thing we call life.
I dread what is ahead for me,
fear it more than I can say.
Forgive me for my cowardice,
but might there be another way?

I cry blood-stained tears.
I wrestle with my fears.
Yet, not my will…but, Thy will…

Did I walk all my years on this earth
for no reason but to die?
It is not mine to question You,
but I’m tempted…WHY?
It is You who know the future plan
far better than me.
Is there some profit gained by my death
that only You can see?
Yet, I will do what You require of me.
I will find the strength somehow.
We have come this far together, Father.
Please do not forsake me now.

I will wear their thorny crown.
I will lay this human life down.
For not my will…but Thy will…
 

---

DO ANGELS CRY?

I wonder if the angels cried
The day the Lord was crucified
And they were told to step aside
He must be left alone

They watched the Roman soldiers kill
The Son of God and His blood spill
They knew it was the Fathers will
Man’s sin to atone

They saw sweet Mary so torn apart
The secrets kept from the very start
Today, ripped from her broken heart
Did it have to be this way?

Did they recall the starry night
When shepherds watched by firelight
As they were all arrayed in white
And made the heavens ring?

In their hands they held the star
That guided wise men from afar
To where the babe and mother are
Such precious gifts they bring

The shepherds ran throughout the town
Asking where He could be found
They spread the message all around
The king was born today

They watched the baby as He lay
Beside His mother in the hay
People came, their respect to pay
But no one brought a crown

Angels watched as He played and ran
And interacted with fallen man
The way the father had it planned
To show the world His love

Now they stood back in untold waves
They wanted so to go and save
Him from going to the borrowed grave
Oh they loved Him so

They also watched as disciples fled
Afraid, ashamed as Jesus bled
From the thorns that pierced His head
At last He had His crown

As He cried out from untold pain
About to die from all the strain
Was it angel tears that made it rain
I wonder if they cried?

~ Charles Betts ~
New Brunswick
 

---

THE CHOICE OF THE CROSS

Luke 23: 32-43

Two others were led to Golgotha
Two thieves with the debts to be paid
Found guilty when tried
And mercy denied
A sentence that no man evades

They placed our Lord Jesus between them
On man to His right and His left
Crucified there
So all made aware
The wages of sin is our death

The soldiers, the scribes and the chief priests
Even those who gathered in dread
With taunting distain
They trampled God's name
Adding shame to our Lord's humble head

One thief joined the voice of his captors
And echoed their words of disgust
While the soldiers jeered
To Jesus he sneered
"Your the Christ? Save yourself and save us!"

"Do you not fear God?" cried the other
Tough death wouldn't be far along
"Our death we deserve
For justice is served
But this man has done nothing wrong!"

Then he turned his head to the Savior
Finding hope though nailed to a tree
Weighted by sin
And guilty within
He said, "Jesus, remember me"

And Jesus replied, "I assure you
Today you'll accompany Me"
From one cross to the other
That sin might be covered
Stood the thief who had faith to believe

Two men side by side their Messiah
Two choices for all men to make
Humility or pride
Our hearts must decide
Which side of the cross will you take.

~ Roberta Prentice ~
Ontario, Canada
 

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Here are two wonderful, moving and well written poems by Angela van Tonder

THE PASSION OF CHRIST

We are not our own,
We belong to Christ,
Bought by His Blood,
Paid for with His life.
No one else has given us
A gift which measures up,
To the love the LORD poured out for us,
When He drank that bitter cup.
I wonder what it felt like
To have them spitting in His face,
Precious Lamb upon the altar,
So full of mercy, love and grace.
Completely alone, He bore the stripes,
The beatings on His back,
The agony He bore for us
As the whip gave out unending cracks.
The cross, the nails, the crucifixion,
Do we realize what was done?
Do we fully know that all our sin
Was poured out on God’s Son?
Righteousness became accursed
As He hung upon a tree,
Treated worse than a common criminal,
For the likes of you and me.
He deserves to receive our everything
Let us give Him what is due
And worship Him in sincerity
With hearts which are pure and true.

Angela van Tonder ©


THE PASSION OF THE FATHER

Father, Your heart must have torn apart,
To see Your Son fall upon the ground,
To watch Him cry out “remove this cup”,
But no other way could be found.
Did You play the scene of Abraham
And Isaac in Your head,
That there was no need for his sacrifice,
You would offer Your Son instead?
How it must have grieved You,
To have to turn Your head away,
As the sin of the world fell upon Him,
And His Blood was poured out that day.
I’m sure it took all Your power,
Not to snatch Him off the cross,
But Your love for us prevented You,
For You knew, then the world would be lost.
I’ve never really meditated
Or thought about Your pain,
To consider what You went through
That I might be saved in Jesus Name.
I hope I am able to please You
For You paid so much for me,
Yet know that my heart is grateful
For You gave me life eternally.

Angela van Tonder ©
 

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Here are two thought-provoking Easter poems written by Maureen LeFanue. Maureen has written over 850 Christian poems.

JESUS’ MOTHER

Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.” John 19:25-27 NIV

As Jesus’ eyes wandered
Over those at the foot of the cross
They rested on His mother
Deeply mourning her loss
In His dying hour
He remembered her human need
“Woman here is your son”, he said
‘Twas John that He did heed

John understood the meaning
Of the words that Jesus spoke
He accepted the trust
Those words did invoke
He counted it a blessing
To take care of the One
Who gave birth to his Lord
He treated her like a son

What was most amazing
Is that even in Christ’s death
He provided for His mother
Although He had no worldly wealth
He knew the love that bound—
John to his Savior dear
Was enough to accept the commission
He requested John to bear.

Maureen LeFanue
Copyright © 2007

RESURRECTION MORNING

“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.” Matt 28:1-3 NIV

There was a messenger from heaven
On that glorious Sunday morn
His appearance caused an earthquake
When with new life Christ was adorned
That large stone moved like a pebble
The hosts of darkness fled
“Son of God come forth—
Thy Father calls Thee”, the angel said

An earthquake marked the hour
When Christ laid His life down
Another marked His resurrection
For triumph and a crown
Roman soldiers fled for safety—
The hosts of darkness too
All of heaven’s angels rejoiced
To His priestly life anew

The brightness of this angel
Who called Christ from the dead
Illuminated the early morning
Paved a victorious day ahead
The Roman guards all fainted
Totally gripped with fear
The glory of this angel
Was more than they could bear

When the soldiers finally arose
And Christ’s glory had left the scene
They rushed to Caiaphas
There faces still as grey as stone
“Tell no one what you’ve seen”
Was Caiaphas’ scheming reply
The priests instructed the soldiers
To report a fictitious lie

So the soldiers spread this story
That Christ’s body had been stolen
Assumingly by His disciples
For this lie the priests were beholden
Satan thought he’d triumphed
When Christ went to His grave
Now he knew he’d lost
This world forever not a slave

Christ had proclaimed in triumph
“I am the resurrection and the life”
His divinity had the power to break
Bonds of death that cause much strife
This was a prime example
That we too will be raised
Covered by Christ’s righteousness
Death’s victory to be praised.

Maureen LeFanue
Copyright © 2007
 

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Here are two unique Easter poems written by George Knowles

A CROSS UPON A RUBBISH DUMP

A Cross upon a rubbish dump
Is there for all to see
Just outside the city walls
At a place called Calvary

Upon the cross there hangs a man
His body racked with pain
At the age of three and thirty years
His agony is plain

The people near they pass him by
Their business to attend
A few women there with him
With tearful faces wait

Then darkness spreads across the land
Thunder and lightning too
The man cries out my Father
Why have you forsaken me

The people then they stop and look
And wait with baited breath
To see what else the man will say
As he approaches death

A cry rings out across the land
Its heard in heaven too
A cry that says it’s finished
And his head falls to his chest

So comes a new beginning
For all who follow him
Death vanquished, sin forgiven
For those who call upon his name

George Knowles
Nottingham, England


MAUNDY THURSDAY

They thought that they had come
To share in just a meal
To meet and to remember
How great their God had been

With meat and bitter herbs
And with unleavened bread
To think about the Passover
They did it every year

They sat around the table
But before they began to eat
The lord took off his outer clothes
And began to wash there feet

Embarrassed they protested
But he just carried on
Removed the dust that clung to them
And dried them with a towel

You don’t know what I do for you
But later you will know
Why I the one you follow
Have done this thing for you

You must be each other’s servants
Take head of what I say
By this the world will know
The love I have for them

He then took the bread and blessed it
Shared it with them and just said
My body I give it now to you
Each time that you all share it remember what I do

Then taking the cup of wine he shared it
Saying my blood I give to you
Pored out for you and all mankind
Prove that my love is true

Come to the garden with me now
For my time with you has done
The beginning of the end is nigh
Gods victory must be won.

George Knowles
Nottingham, England
 

---

THOSE WERE MY STRIPES

As the day draws closer
That my King shall arrive
I battle a growing evil inside
This sin in my bones
This pain never fleeing
I drove those nails
I left him bleeding
Those were my stripes
I caused that pain
I pierced his side
To cover my shame
A crown fit for me
I drove down on his brow
His beard ripped from his face
Just to settle the crowd
Raise his cross
I gave that order
As the hole in his side
Spilled blood and spilled water
What’s that he said
Have my ears been deceived
Did he just use his last breath
To ask forgiveness for me

Sheyenne Housand, North Carolina
 

---

Blood fell below
on the earth he created.
A doom fated death
Not of His making.
Looking with love
on tear soaked faces.
Hearing the jeers
of those mistaken.
Feeling alone
and so hated.
When all He wanted
Was His love to be taken.
And hope of a future
with Heavenly places.

Rebecca Shaw
 

---

HAPPY EASTER

H- STANDS FOR "HOPE", FOR HE IS OUR "HOPE".

A- STANDS FOR "AGAPE", FOR THIS IS THE TYPE OF LOVE HE SHOWED TO US.

P- STANDS FOR "POWER", FOR HE HAS ALL "POWER" OVER EVERYTHING AND EVERY SITUATION.

P- STANDS FOR "PRAISE", FOR WE SHOULD "PRAISE" HIM ALL WAYS.

Y- STANDS FOR "YES". FOR HE SAID "YES" TO HIS FATHERS WILL AND DRANK FROM THE "BITTER CUP".


E- STANDS FOR" EVERYONE", FOR HE CAME TO SAVE "EVERYONE".

A- STANDS FOR "AWESOME" AND "ALL MIGHTY", FOR THE LORD IS BOTH STRONG AND MIGHTY.

S- STANDS FOR "SINS", FOR THE "SINS" THAT HE BEAR, AND WERE NOT HIS OWN; FOR JESUS WAS SINLESS.

T- STANDS FOR "TIME" AND "THANKSGIVING". THE "TIME" WAS 3 DAYS AND THE "THANKSGIVING" IS FOR ALL WAYS.

E- STANDS FOR "EVERLASTING", FOR THAT’S THE TYPE OF JOY AND PEACE HE GIVES TO ME.

R- STANDS FOR " RESURRECTED", "RISEN", AND "REDEEMED", FOR CHRIST WAS "RESURRECTED", AND " RAISED FROM THE DEAD" AND HIS PEOPLE WERE REDEEMED.

~ Sis. Terri Monique McNeil-Holloway ~
 

---

THEY’RE KILLING A MAN

It’s happening right now on a hill up there,
I just came from back here,
It was a terrible sight to see,
They’re nailing a man to a tree.

It looks like they beat him to death,
The poor man can barely take a breath,
They jammed a crown of thorns on his head,
It looks like he is almost dead.

He claims to be the King of the Jews,
Have you heard his radical views?
He says we do not have to die,
How can this be true? It must be a lie.

They said Pilate tried to set him free,
But the high priest would not let that be,
So Pilate washed his hands of this mess,
Because he found no wrongs confessed.

There are two others with him on the hill,
All three they plan to kill,
The two criminals I understand why,
But this Rabbi should not have to die.

Most of his friends cannot be found,
Someone said they must have fled town,
His Mother and a few are at his feet,
They followed him up the bloody street.

There is a sign nailed above his head,
“King of the Jews” is what it read,
The Messiah is what you claim to be,
Save yourself, come down set your self free.

A soldier said his final time has come,
He is asking God to forgive everyone,
He said “God why have you forsaken me?”
Looking towards Heaven as if to see.

Guards are throwing dice for his clothes,
There is no pity for him God knows,
Struggling to speak, “It is finished” he said,
He finally laid down his head.

The day turned to night; the ground began to shake,
Graves are opening, the dead are awake,
People are afraid and running around,
They pierced his side and pulled him down.

Shouts in the temple, the curtain is torn in two,
The elders and priests now know what is true,
Just as I heard the centurion say,
“This truly was a Holy man we killed today.”

Timothy R. McGuire
Hamilton, Ohio
 

---

IT WASN'T THE NAILS

It wasn't the nails that kept Jesus on the cross,
It wasn't the scourging or the thorns.
It wasn't the agony of Calvary's hill,
Or the weight of the cross that was borne.

It wasn't the taunts or the shame that He bore,
No, it wasn't any of these things.
It was Jesus doing his Father's will,
Dying, Salvation to bring.

It was Love beyond all understanding,
It was Grace offered to all mankind.
It was Peace such as the world could never give,
It was Mercy, which the world never could find.

For He is the Way, the Truth and the Life,
And He bought, with each step that He trod,
Redemption full and free to everyone,
Through Jesus Christ; The Gift of God.

by Gertrude Jefferies
 

---

A MOTHERS HEART

How it breaks my heart in two
To see my son I gave birth to
Being pushed and shoved about
Crucify Him, Crucify Him, they all cried out

As I watched and seeing him strain
Bearing His cross feeling his pain
How I would love to help Him regain
But, they took him and led Him away

They nailed His hands
They nailed His feet
Upon his cross in Hebrew and Greek
Were the words for all to seek
Jesus, the King of the Jews

My Son, My Son, what have they done
Do they not know that you are the one?
It grieves my heart to see you so numb
Would they do harm, if it be their son?

Therefore, when he saw me near
He felt my pain and saw my fear
He said to him whom he loved so dear
Behold, your mother, draw near

Nicola Jean
Sydney Australia
 

---

VIA DOLOROSA

A man rides through Jerusalem on a donkey,
Palm leaves are scattered to the floor.
But Deep inside this loving man,
Is the knowledge that there is more.

The people praise him, "He's Christ-he'll save us!"
And indeed, He will.
But before that glorious time may come,
He must suffer on Golgotha hill.

A man struggles through Jerusalem,
Carrying a cross on his broken back.
Your head turns, you stretch out your arm to touch him.
To gain the love you so dearly lack.

His head turns, and inside the painful, brutal massacre,
You see peace enclosed in his precious eyes.
A deep, warm feeling spreads like fire through your body,
And you see through all your lifetime lies.

You turn to face him, your eyes fixed on his,
"This is the king of the Jews" You say.
Although no word is spoken, you feel his presence overpowering you.
You feel his words come to you, "There is no other way."

A father, The father, who watches from Heaven,
As his Son, his only Son, gets beaten to the ground.
Whipped and tortured for the fun of man.
But Jesus, hurting inside and out, makes no sound.

He falls to the floor in agony,
His mother runs to him, holds him tight.
And above it all, he smiles.
Across his face, in his eyes, peace and light.

Three men on three crosses.
Three deaths, one more important that the others.
Kneeling at the cross, watching on the cross.
They watch, a mother, the Father, sisters, brothers.

The sky turns dark, the world is dim and quiet.
Jesus shouts, "Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabachtani!"
The temple curtain rips in two,
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
And through Christ, the world was free.

Alexandra Growden
Copyright, 2006
 

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Here are two Easter poems written by Becky Wall, Illinois, U.S.A.

THE POUNDING OF THE NAILS

Sunday morning rolled around,
And I was half asleep,
Unconcerned what day it was,
Til something made me weep.

The crucifixion story,
Came to life that day.
I witnessed in my mind's eye,
The price Christ had to pay.

They laid Him down upon a cross,
His clothes already stripped,
A crown of thorns upon His head,
And stripes where He was whipped.

And then I heard an awful sound,
Along with Mary's wails.
The sound that changed my life,
Was the pounding of the nails.

Church means so much more to me,
For when I miss I find,
The pounding of the nails,
Echoes through my mind.

Becky Wall, Illinois, U.S.A.


SONRISE

Jesus had been crucified,
Darkness filled the earth.
Three days thence it trembled;
The earth was giving birth.

An angel rolled the stone away,
Sonlight filled the skies,
Prophecies were now fulfilled;
Finally came Sonrise.

Death no longer masters us;
The victory has been won.
Mourning turned to morning,
With the rising of the Son.

Becky Wall, Illinois, U.S.A.
 

---

HE WAS GONE

On that day, that lovely day
The angels rolled the stone away.
He was not there, they could see
He was gone, where could He be?

The women who had loved Him so
To the tomb that day did go.
They had no doubt in their mind
That Jesus there, they would find.

But when they came closer to see
He was gone, where could He be?
The stone had been rolled away
On that lovely lovely day.

They begin to be filled with fear
The angels said, He is not here
He has risen! See the place where He lay
He has risen, on this lovely day.

Then He appeared to Mary Magdalene
She then went and told who she had seen.
Then Jesus appeared to eleven men
And they believed it then.

He was taken up before their eyes
To be with His Father in the skies.
And lo, He is with us until the end
That's the GOOD NEWS for us my friend

Norma Jean Duncan, Princeton, WV
 

---

WITH THE BLOOD CAME THE PROMISE

Come with me if you will.
To a flashback of long ago.
To a place that's known of, as Golgotha.
To a place known of, as woe.

Close your eyes and see the ground.
Now look upon His face.
Do you see the agony?
That has bought us all God's grace.

The hurt, the shame, He must of felt.
And yet, He still endured.
Knowing that, with His sacrifice.
Our lives would be secured.

Now keep your eyes still shut.
And look upon His side.
The blood that's there, is for you.
For His love, always will provide.

The blood has washed us clean.
And prepared for us the way.
For with the blood, came the promise.
We will see our King someday.

Now we journey, back to the present.
Thinking of how much God does care.
Let's put our hands upon our hearts.
And thank Him for living there.

Terrica Jestice, 3-19-02
 

---

A RIGHTEOUS WRONG

You lived your life so you could die
for in this world perfection's crime
you traveled 'round to win our souls
so we could call your heaven home

You came into a world unjust
that wasn't ready for your love
you filled our cups to quench our thirst
we love because you loved us first

You lived to die a martyr's death
and institute your holy breath
to think, you gave your righteous blood
to save these souls of sinful mud

Eternal life whispered His name
to us his death was just the same
crucify his feet and hands
for claiming he's the Son of Man

Save thyself thou King of Jews
come off the cross, let thyself loose
what agony and pain to bear
and for a world that didn't care

But wrong it seems the world would be
he rose again in days but three
he proved to us God's mighty hand
is stronger than all those of man

To Jesus Christ may glory be
and all man's praises unto thee
with all my heart to you I say
I'm glad you proved man wrong that day.

I'm saddened to think of what our Lord Jesus Christ had to suffer for our sins. But even sadder it would be had He never suffered at all. Glory be to God for His marvelous gift.

John Janzen Aylmer, Ontario
 

---

KEEP ME NEAR THE CROSS

Keep me near the cross, dear Lord, this is my earnest plea.
For it is the symbol of the life You sacrificed for me.
The sinful nature that I had kept us so far apart.
But You devised a special plan so You could change my heart.

You sacrificed Your only Son for a wretched sinner like me.
You gave me a gift I couldn't earn; by grace, You set me free.
The cross is my reminder, Lord, of the love You have for me.
I now have life because Jesus died on the cross at Calvary.

Keep me near the cross, dear Lord, as a reminder just for me,
That before I accepted Jesus, I was blind and could not see.
I could not see the joy and peace that was missing from my heart.
Through Jesus, my eyes were opened and I made a brand new start.

When Jesus came into my heart, He changed me from within.
So keep me near the cross, dear Lord, and help me turn from sin.
Lord, You never promised me a lifetime free of strife.
You knew the perils I would face throughout my earthly life.

Daily I face many trials, which I don't feel I need.
But Lord, You always know what's best, so I will trust Your lead.
The things that happen in my life, I face because You know,
That only in times of adversity can I truly learn and grow.

Keep me near the cross, dear Lord, when I'm down and in despair.
I only have to call Your name and I know that You are there.
I know You will forgive me Lord, even when I sometimes slide.
Remind me of the cross, dear Lord, and keep me near Your side.

Since Jesus came to earth as man in human form like me,
I know now how He suffered when He died upon that tree.
He felt the same things that I feel; rejection, hurt and pain,
Because He was a human when to this earth He came.

Lord, You could have saved Your Son from death upon that cross.
But You let Him buy my pardon; yes, sweet Jesus paid my cost.
And just to prove Your love for me, You raised Him from the grave.
You gave Him victory over death and now my soul is saved.

By the sacrifice You freely gave, I know you wanted me,
To accept Your gift and dwell with You for all eternity.
Help me share the cross, dear Lord, with those who are still lost,
So they, too, will know you as Savior because I shared the cross.


Emily McAdams
Copyright Jan. 2002
 

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IF I COULD ONLY

If I could only see... what my Lord has seen.
If I could only look through His eyes.
If I could only feel... that cold, hard steel...
My Lord did feel on that lonely, Calvary night.
If I could only trust... why He bled and died for us...
Then I could perfectly see.
If I could have been... O Lord, where You took away my sins...
That night on that cross at Calvary.

What He has given to us... grace, purity, and Heavenly trust...
Will last for all eternity, I'm sure.
All one has to do, you see... is open their Bible and read...
To know that His love will endure.
His story unfold... as they are vividly told...
Throughout this Bible I keep.
His strength is strong... He did no wrong...
And yet He lived a life that was so meek!

If I could only see... what my Lord has seen.
If I could only look through His eyes.
If I could only feel... that cold, hard steel...
My Lord did feel on that lonely, Calvary night.
If I could only trust... why He bled and died for us...
Then I could perfectly see.
If I could have been... O Lord, where You took away my sins...
That night on that cross at Calvary.

He's the King of all men... He did wear back then...
A crown made of prickly thorns.
And the world paid a heavy cost... when they nailed Him to that cross...
Gambling for the robe He had worn.
What they couldn't see... that lonely night on Calvary...
They murdered a King of all men.
If I could have only been... O Lord, where You took away my sins...
Your life I would have defended!

If I could only see... what my Lord has seen.
If I could only look through His eyes.
If I could only feel... that cold, hard steel...
My Lord did feel on that lonely, Calvary night.
If I could only trust... why He bled and died for us...
Then I could perfectly see.
If I could have been... O Lord, where You took away my sins...
That night on that cross at Calvary.

Thousands of years have passed... and the memory of Him still lasts...
'Cause He's here with me every day.
He's always been in my life... even when I was in strife...
And I've gotten through those bad times His way.
Lord, what I love about You... I'm sure You always knew...
Is that I'd follow You every step of the way.
Even while You stumbled through that street... on Your way to Calvary...
My heart cried out for You that day!

If I could only see... what my Lord has seen.
If I could only look through His eyes.
If I could only feel... that cold, hard steel...
My Lord did feel on that lonely, Calvary night.
If I could only trust... why He bled and died for us...
Then I could perfectly see.
If I could have been... O Lord, where You took away my sins...
That night on that cross at Calvary.

If I could have been...
O Lord, where You took away my sins...
O Lord, that night on that cross at Calvary.

Stephen Ray Leitzell
Copyright 2001
Middletown, DE

---

SOMEBODY HAD TO DIE

Somebody had to die for me
just so I could have life and have
it more abundantly.
Somebody had to die for me so that I could
go where it was best for me.
Somebody had to die for me just so that light
could be shed that I might see.
Somebody had to die for me that I might
not be held captive but be free.
Somebody had to die for me that
I didn't have to pretend,
myself I could be.
Somebody had to die for me
so that I could live and
love more continuously.
Somebody had to die for
me and now I believe
in the things he said he'd be.

Renee Easterling, 2001
Moss Point, MS
 

---

THE PRICE

Upon the cross he hung,
so that his love would be sung.

In his wrists were placed the nails,
the ceasing pain would never fail.

On his head was placed the crown,
the thorns were pushed way deep down.

The sweat and blood ran down his side,
as he took his final breath, he died.

At this time a battle was raging,
the chains of death were no longer caging.

Though dead in the tomb he lay,
he rose from the dead on the third day.

Renae, PA, USA

---

FOR YOU, MY CHILD, I DIED

One night while I was traveling,
the stars were shining bright.
I gazed up into the darkness
and then I saw a bright Light!

The Light came down toward me,
and stood right by my side.
I knew it was my Savior when,
He said, "For you, my child, I died!

For you, my child, I took that cross
and walked the hill called Calvary!
I let the soldiers tear my flesh
as they nailed me to that tree!

I let them laugh and scorn at me
with a crown of thorns upon my head.
I could've called ten thousand angels,
but, I chose to die for you instead!"

By then, my eyes were filled with tears
as I listened to my Savior speak.
He gently held me by the hands
and wiped the tears from my cheek.

"I've come tonight to comfort you,
and I am ALWAYS at your side.
So when you're down and lonely,
remember, for you, my child, I died!"

Written by Kaye Des'Ormeaux, Copyright @ 1997
Dedicated to the love I have for my Lord,
and to myself as a reminder that
Jesus loves me & will never leave me!

---

WHO IS THE MAN?

Who is the man with the price on his head?
A carpenter's son, a ransom for the dead.

Who is the man who never strayed from the law?
The anchor of my soul, a lamb without flaw.

Who is the man with thorns for a crown?
The alpha and the omega, in whom peace can be found.

Who is the man between the two thieves?
The Lord of Lords, the King of Kings.

Who is the man behind all the blood?
The lamb that was slain, the most high God.

Who is the man who struggles to breathe?
Our remover of sin, the Lord of reprieve.

Who is the man who cries out loud?
The giver of life, but a reproach to the crowd.

Who is the man some say is the Christ?
The tower of salvation, the pearl of great price.

Who is the man born of contention and strife?
He is the great "I am", the Bread of Life.

Jesse Clifford, Long Beach Ca.

---

THE VISION FROM THE CROSS
( Hebrews 12:2)

The shadow of the cross was spread out below Him,
Its arms stretching out…north, south, east, and west,
As if trying to embrace the world in entirety,
Encompassing all, in His grace, at His rest.

As His eyes traveled down on the masses that day,
Drawn to witness His death, most with pleasure,
He could see past their outward appearance of evil,
And sacrifice all for the sake of the treasure.

The treasure He saw on that violent hillside,
Was the vision first born on the dawn of creation,
That man would be joined in a covenant union,
With the Godhead, together, the birth of a nation.

As He looked to His right, He witnessed repentance,
Brought forth in the heart of a once-hardened soul,
And He knew that His mission was finally completed;
For all generations, He accomplished His goal.

Then He looked to His left, and He grimaced with pain,
At the heart made of stone that rejected His Word;
For him there would be no room in His kingdom,
He chose his own ways, even though he had heard.

With all of this drama unfolding around Him,
Fulfillment of grace was still first in His mind;
For He would return, having conquered the darkness,
Return for those masses, which once had been blind.

We are those masses He died for that day,
As He hung on that cross, and the day turned to night,
Now the question remains to ask of yourself,
Which cross do you hang on, the left or the right?

Joy Kelly 2001
The Woodlands, Texas

---

JESUS AND SATAN

I know a man I have never met, Who hung on a cross to pay my sin debt.

When Satan wants to take control, Jesus tells him, This is my child I saved her soul.

I defeated you when I rolled that stone away, As I rose from the grave on that third day.

You and your angels were cast out of heaven into earth, I was born to defeat you, it was planned before my birth.

I give to my children eternal life after they leave this land, My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all and no man is able to pluck them from his hands.

They will enter into heaven's gate, For you and your angels it's eternally too late.

So give up now Satan, the battle's been won, I am the king of all kings, I am my Father's son.

~ Written By SouthernHeart ~

---

SHOULD HAVE BEEN (THE PRICE)

That should have been me
      carrying that.
That should have been me
      hurting my back.

That should have been me
      walking that road.
That should have been me
      with the heavy load.

That should have been me
      with holes in my hands.
That should have been me
      with a thorny crown.

That should have been me
      hanging there.
That should have been me
      dying up there.

He paid the price
      I couldn't afford
He paid the price
      and died for...

That should have been me
      dying there.
That should have been me
      with blood everywhere.

But there he hangs
      and here I stand.
His innocent spirit
      and my guilty hands.

He should have never
      been hanging there
'Cause that should have been me
      up there.

Shiri Ksena

---

WHY?

To those who do not worship me
the ones too blind to see,
Do you not know your sins I bore
as I hung upon that tree?

Do you not think I understand
the suffering that you bear?
Just look at the palms of my hands,
They're scarred because I care

Can you not see my love for you
with thorns upon my brow?
The blood I shed for you my child
so you would love me now.

I took the sword into my side
that's what I chose to do.
Then I bowed my head and died
with thoughts and tears for you.

Dori McCabe, Wagram, NC

---

HAPPY, HAPPY EASTER MORN

Happy Happy Easter morn
with Loud Hosanna's sing
Jesus Christ is risen today
Our Savior and our King

We raise our voices to the Lord
and rejoice in all His Glory
Christ the Lord is risen today!
We hear the Easter story.

He cried for us, he died for us
He willingly forgives
all who come and kneeling down
their lives to Him they give

Celebrate this Easter morn
with joy and happiness.
He is our Lord and one great King
Eternally He lives!

Dania Hann-Lachapelle, 19 April, 2000

---

          H E   B O R E   O U R   S O R R O W S

'twas not the Jews, Lord Jesus, who did crucify Thee,
who treacherously dragged Thee to the judgment place,
who shamefully despised Thee, spewing in Thy face,
Who bound Thee, beat Thee, and did vilify Thee.

'twas not the soldiers, Lord, whose cruel fists decried Thee,
lifted the mocking reed, the heavy hammer took,
who the accursed tree put up, while dice they shook
to gain the seamless coat which cover was denied Thee.

'tis I, oh Lord, 'tis I who caused Thee all this woe;
I am the weighty tree whose burden brought Thee low;
I am that cutting string which added to Thy terror,
the whip, the nail, the spear which proved that Thou wert dead;
the dripping crown of thorns which mocked Thy blessed head:
for this was done - alas - for all my sin and error.

Rev. Jacobus Revius (1568-1658)
Translated by Johannes DeViet

---

Face to face with Christ my Savior,
Face to face, what shall it be,
When at last I shall behold Him,
Jesus Christ who died for me.

Face to face I shall behold Him,
Far beyond the starry sea,
Face to face in all His Glory,
Jesus Christ who died for Me.

~Author Unknown~

---

For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son.
It was at the cross of Calvary, the battle was truly won.

It is here that sin is washed away by Christ's atoning blood.
Like water washes all away the filthy sight of mud.

At the great exchange of Calvary, God provides His way of redemption.
For the justice of our deserving hell, God offers a full exemption.

By faith alone in Christ alone, God provides our substitute.
And we receive eternal victory, that even Satan cannot dispute.

Oh, won't you see the gracious gift God offers in His Son.
For once you die it is too late, and as for hope there's none.

Thomas C. Duck
San Antonio, Texas

---

ADVENT POEMS

The following Advent poem was sent to me in an email and no author's name was given.

The world was created, and that’s the beginning,
it didn’t take long and man began sinning.
God was not pleased, as well we all know,
He made it all good, and set it below.

To die was our lot, we had not much hope,
a Saviour was needed, beyond our own scope.
But God had a plan - a way out far thought-
He’d send down His Son, our lives to be bought.

We waited and waited for thousands of years,
we toiled and we sweated and cried lots of tears
For years all lay quite, no message was heard,
and then all of a sudden - the news was absurd-,

A baby was born in a town far away,
the promised Messiah had come to hold sway.
Was born from a virgin, it really was so,
and why it all happened is written below.

He died on a cross and so paid the price,
that should have been ours, it wasn’t so nice,
He rose from the grave as had been foretold,
so that hope in the future was ours to now hold.

For we are The Bride and He is our Groom,
He went back to heaven to fix us a room.
We’ve waited and waited for thousands of years,
we toiled and we sweated and cried lots of tears.

It’s advent again and He’ll be back soon,
so get yourself ready as bride for a groom.
In that situation, are you sure to be taken?
or left here below to feel lost and shaken.

His coming will not be told in advance,
be ready today, not living by chance.
For Christmas is Christ and not all your wealth,
so focus on Him, it’s good for your health.

The story here told is truth and no fable,
look forward to His coming, and set out your table,
to celebrate a wedding, that soon will take place,
He’d love to come here and see joy on your face.

Author Unknown
 

---

CHRISTMAS POEMS

A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

It was six months ago, and a day,
when her husband passed away.
The doctors said there’s no more to do,
so she quit her job to help him through.

The child was sleeping when his father died,
to tell her son, oh how she tried.
The little boy cried that night,
full of fear, full of fright.

And on that night she lost her faith,
never to believe in the “Pearly Gate”.
She made a vow to never pray,
it meant nothing now, anyway.

At the funeral, he could only stare,
wishing that his Dad were there.
Tears were filling people’s eyes,
saddened by the young boy’s cries.

As the months went by, things got rough,
she went back to work, but it wasn’t enough.
With no food, no money, and bills to pay,
she just couldn’t bring herself to pray.

Before she knew it, it was Christmas Time,
and she wasn’t able to save a dime.
She felt so bad that she had no tree,
for all her son’s friends to see.

On Christmas Eve, they slept together,
she promised her son, she’d be there forever.
He asked her if Santa was coming tonight,
she whispered no, with tears in sight.

Her son would sulk, it wasn’t fair,
she hated to see him in despair.
She wanted to give her son some joy,
oh how she wished she had a toy.

THEN:
The mother got to her knees to pray,
asking the Lord to hear her say.
She asked for help to return a smile,
to the face of her little child.

On Christmas Morning, the boy was screaming,
she saw his eyes were wide and gleaming.
At the door were games, toys, even a bike,
and a card that said “for the tyke”.

With a great big smile and eyes so bright,
he kissed his mom as he held her tight.
She learned that a charity heard of her plight,
and frantically scrambled through the night.

THEN AGAIN:
The mother got to her knees to pray,
thanking the Lord for hearing her say.
She thanked the Lord for returning a smile,
to the face of her little child.

Paul R. MacPherson

---

WHAT GIFT I BRING

Down the corridors of time
Through halls of history
Comes that blessed gospel theme
Jesus died for me
Heaven's music filled the earth
As angel choirs sang
And in the hearts of men who heard
Truly joybells rang

For unto us that day was born
Born of virgin birth
Jesus Christ our Lord's dear Son
Come to dwell on earth
Deity to humanity
God come in fulness of time
Salvation as His offering
No other gift so sublime

Obedient to His Father's will
He offered willingly
To present His body a sacrifice
To die for you and me
His cradle life so swiftly past
His ventures as a man
Revealed the heart of Father's love
To save us fallen men

Raise the dead, heal the sick
Cause the blind to see
Dumb men hear, lame men walk
What blessed jubilee
What could top that proffering
What more of Kingly treasure
Why full forgiveness for our sin
He giveth without measure

What gifts we bring to offer Him
We dually do our part
No greater gift that we could bring
Than to offer Him our heart
Bow down and worship Christ the Lord
Worship Him today
For unto us this child was born
To turn our night to day

Sin in all its magnitude
Stands fast to take its toll
But whosoever believes on Christ
Is made completely whole
For in the Son God loved the world
And showed His Father heart
That whosoever believes on Christ
His gift! Eternal Life! He imparts.

Gary James Smith
Alberta, Canada
Copyright Dec.9, 2012

---

MEMORABLE DAYS

The day you were born,
The stars shone ever so bright,
King Herod had such a great fright,
The wise men travelled all thru’ the night,
And the angels danced with all of their might.

The day you were baptized,
River Jordan was still and sound,
The crowds stood all around,
A dove descended from a cloud
And the voice of God thundered so loud.

The day you preached the Sermon on the Mount,
People came from far and wide,
Many wanted to sit by your side,
You told the people it was time to decide,
And many chose your way to abide.

The day you were crucified,
The soldiers treated you with such harshness,
The demons of hell rejoiced with much gladness,
Many of your followers were filled with great sadness,
And the whole earth was covered in darkness.

The day you rose from the dead,
The angels shone as bright as the moon,
The women rejoiced at such a great boon,
Doubting Thomas stood like a loon,
And you left a message that you would be coming back soon.

~ Tesh Njokanma ~
Nigeria

---

CHRISTMAS

I see Christmas as snow,
Slade on the radio,
Happiness on T.V.,
Choirs to hear and see.

I Feel the Christmas Heat
From fires, people I meet
Plus all of the whiskey
drank by my family.

I hear Christmas is cold
if there is no one to hold.
A time you feel alone
If there's no-one at home.

I know Christmas is greed
born of commercial seed
Taking away Christ Mass
Replacing with X-Mass.

I hope the Messiah
Can make us look higher
Can bring back dignity
to Christianity

~ John Earls ~

---

REASON FOR SEASON

What is Christmas all about you might ask?
I wonder if this question can be answered at last.

Is Christmas about all the presents you buy at some store?
Like Toys, Cell Phones, Electronics and more.

All Kinds of foods prepared for us on this special date.
Hurry! Everyone let’s fill our plates.

There’s no time to waste let’s get it all done.
Checking the names on our list and don’t miss anyone.

It’s going to be great and it’s going to be grand.
Boxes and boxes of stuff all made in some foreign land.

But wait and stop for a while.
Listen to your heart as you begin to smile.

Christmas is really much more than what you can buy.
Listen and I can explain in a twinkling of an eye.

Christmas is more than presents we give to each other or maybe a stranger.
Christmas is about that little Babe who was born in a Manger.

He was born in a Manger because of no room at the Inn.
This Christ Child grew up to be the World’s Greatest Teacher and Mankind’s Savior from sin.

Christmas to me means the Savior has come.
He brings forgiveness and peace for each and every one.

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! I say with great joy.
This world is now brighter because of Jesus that little Baby Boy.

~ R.W. Carey ~

---

GOD’S GLORIOUS WELCOME

 No buntings flying in the street
 No gathering crowds to cheer.
 No one the saviour’s birth to greet,
 Strange silence fills the air.
 
 No greetings come from other lands,
 No calls from heads of state.
 No spotlight does Christ’s birth command,
 Only silence to relate.
 
 Yet, God a greater welcome planned
 Than all earth's worldly flair.
 His host of angels heaven spanned,
 With them, none can compare.
 
 Glory to God in highest heaven
 And peace to men accord.
 For unto you a Saviour given,
 Whose name is “Christ the lord.”
 
 No greater welcome in the land,
 No grander scene on earth.
 As angels sing at God’s command
 To greet the “Saviour’s” birth.

~ John Gray ~
N. Ireland

---

OF ANGELS AND OF GLORY

Of angels and of glory
falling down like snow
Of angels and of glory
song of Christmas long ago
Heavens silent symphony
was synchronized in space
and cold winds howled in bitter agony
then He took my place
and forgiveness fell like
a warm woollen blanket
covering every dark cold
and hidden place
Now softly blows
the sweet warm winds of grace
And through the once bleak landscape a mighty crimson river flows
roaring through the endless chasm bringing heaven to earth below

Jean Bonin Millet, Alberta

---

THE BEST GIFT

There was a gift lying in that manger,
in the form of a tiny infant so sweet.
The wealthiest kingdom on earth
could never render a gift as complete.
It was a gift all of recorded history
would never be able to repeat.

~ Lanette Kissel ~


He has given us the greatest reason
for decking out the hall.
He has given us the gift
we will never want to return to the mall.
His gift of selfless love to us
is the most wonderful present of all.

All the fancy foil wrapped packages,
by comparison can only pale.
His sacrifice made for us on the cross
cannot be found at any sale.
It’s the greatest blessing of all,
His enduring love that will not fail.

Because of His devoted sacrifice,
we will leave Him never.
For He has freely given to us
the very best Christmas gift ever.
Now our loving relationship with Him,
even death will not be able to sever.


A LETTER TO MY MOTHER

(PUBLISHED in Victory Herald May 2012)
(A letter from the womb from baby Jesus to his mother, Mary)
(a hypothetical poem)

Little handmaiden of the Lord,
possessed of a soul quite rare,
my young and frightened mother,
so lovely, sweet, and fair.

You wait with baited breath.
You are nervously anticipating
such things you cannot understand.
Yet you are patiently waiting.

I am whispering in your ear,
the softest sound you’ve ever heard,
from a mouth that’s not quite formed,
and has never spoken a single word.

You are still a child yourself.
Together we will learn and grow.
Though my mission is to save the world,
I will love you more than you’ll ever know.

I can tell you feel it too,
that dreaded, fearful sense of doom.
The only time of peace I’ll know
is the time I spend within your womb.

You will be exhaling Heaven’s breath
as you breathe life into Me.
Your great contribution to this world,
you will never fully see.

The Father provides reassurance from without,
while I render you comfort from within.
Little handmaiden, your service to our Lord
will help to save your world from sin.

~ Lanette Kissel ~

---

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS

The hustle and bustle of shopping mall sprees
The buying of gifts so anxious to please
The decorations and planning of holiday themes
The little ones hopes of Santa Claus dreams

The Yuletide carols our memories know well
The church pews full in this time of Noel
The cards and parties of seasonal cheer
And then it’s over again for a year

And through all of this time of celebration and bliss
The thoughts of my heart each day are this
Happy birthday dear Jesus in heaven above
All the blessings I’ve known are the gift of your love

~ Richard A. Diem ~

---

STAR OF WONDER ** STAR OF NIGHT

Shoppers dashing to and fro,
Children's eyes all aglow.
Presents wrapped beneath the tree,
Waiting to open on Christmas Eve.

The frost upon the window pane,
Remind us Christmas time is here again.
Parties here and parties there,
Eggnog and treats are everywhere.

What is this hustle all about?
Inside it makes me want to Shout.
Do they not hear the Christ child calling,
Inside their hearts as snow is falling?

Where is the "wonder" of that glorious night,
When Angels appeared and Shepherds did fright.
Are the homes decorated with Santa's and elf's?
Or do Angels and Nativity sets adorn our shelves?

The smell of baking and all the delights,
and still no sign of Christ in sight!
Stores filled with Santa and Rudolph's red nose,
Yet mention Christ, how dare we impose!

Do the Angels looks upon this earth
and see us celebrating Christ's own Birth?
Or do they shake their heads and cry,
That most of mankind has past Him by?

Oh Christ, My Lord, when will they understand?
That you came to earth to redeem sinful man?
The Silver bells and Mistletoe,
mean nothing without You here below!

The sparkling eyes on a child's face,
Filled with the wonder of God's grace.
Oh Lord, how long before they behold?
My Precious Child, they must be told!

Oh Holy night when Christ was born,
Wrapped in Mary's arms, safe and warm.
Angels rejoicing in the Sky,
As all of Heaven watched nearby!

Oh Star of Wonder, Star of Night,
How I wish I could behold that Glorious Sight,
When All of Bethlehem was stirred,
And the Voice from the Manger, Jesus Christ was heard!

© Mary Ann Trott

THE HOMELESS MAN

He wandered the streets,
all alone,
The homeless man,
Oh how he roamed.

No place to lay his head
did he.
Lost, cold but looking for
A Nativity.

His heart torn,
no family around,
Just a cold bench
or lay on hard ground.

His eyes were aglow
just once a year,
The Magic of Christmas
but on his cheek, a tear.

He wandered around
till he found the mall,
Inside he went
Till he saw the stall.

There lie Baby Jesus
in a Manger
eyes full of tears
stood the homeless stranger.

All his life,
he had heard the story,
Of how Jesus Christ,
Had come down from His Glory!

He stood there
beside the stable,
with his tears falling
upon Jesus cradle.

Oh God have mercy,
upon my soul,
Hear my cries,
Its only You I behold.

Inside his heart
a voice had stirred,
Listen my Son,
Your cries I have heard.

I have a Mansion
for you up here,
Just keep the faith,
and to Me, draw near!

His heart aglow,
he turned around,
walked out the door,
without a sound.

But inside his heart,
he was all aglow,
As snowflakes glistened
upon the snow.

He gazed up above,
And saw a star,
Shining Oh so near,
but yet so far.

His heart was warm,
The first time ever!
As He laid on the ground
on his cold, hard sweater.

He closed his eyes,
Peace at last,
The true meaning he learned,
Of Christmas past!

Jesus Christ,
born in a Manger,
Came to this earth,
now to him, no stranger.

Peace on Earth,
Good will to men,
The Homeless man,
Was born again!

People passed him by,
Oh how they looked,
and felt such pity
as their heads they shook.

But Singing was heard
from the ground where he lay,
"Amazing Grace"
As to His God, he did pray!

© Mary Ann Trott

---

THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS

I give you a Christmas gift, that can’t be put in a box or wrapped with a bow. But a gift you can place in your heart and take where ever you go! This gift is so valuable; it can’t be purchased with silver or gold. But is free to ever human soul! This gift I give you is full LOVE –for LOVE brings JOY and these are two things you can never have too much of. PEACE I leave with you, to comfort your mind. PATIENCE is a virtue that I hope you will find. KINDNESS and GOODNESS are gifts that come from above; FAITHFULNESS is a treasure that can only be found in heart’s full of love. GENTLENESS is a gift of Grace that rains down on you today! SELF-CONTROL is a gift that shines bright, reflecting who I am in your life. I hope you can see that I have blessed you with the gift of me. I was born many years ago, with one purpose- to save your soul. My name is JESUS CHRIST and I’m honored to be your Christmas gift of- LIFE!

~ Carrie Beck ~

---

MISSING THE MASTER'S TOUCH

A week before Christmas, just sitting around
Not feeling well and wearing a frown,
I thought, "Something is missing, something's not right."
So I went to the mall to look at the sight.

I watched small children with their mom and dad
as they went through the stores looking real sad,
Crying, " Mommy! Daddy! Please get it for me!"
Parents replying - "We must wait and see."
Feeling so lost, I searched in my mind;
seeking what's missing, and trying to find.

I went on home and that night as I slept
a revealing scene into my dream had crept.
Material things we had plenty of,
what I saw missing was the Gift from above.
The Master's Touch of Forgiveness, Love and Peace
From this troubled old world sure brings release.

Those troubled small children caught up in the rush,
material focused parents forgetting the Masters Brush
needed to complete the painting of life and what's REAL:
done over 2000 years ago on Calvary's Hill.

~ Daniel Younger ~
 

---

CHRISTMAS

Do you see that little baby
Who in a manger lies?
This is God's beloved Son,
This is Jesus Christ.

Millions love the story
Of the babe born long ago.
They tell it every year
To their children young and old.

But did you know that baby
Who in the manger lies;
That baby does not stay there.
He grows up and dies.

"Oh really,” you say,
But you show no surprise.
For after all, each baby
Lives his life, then dies.

But every other child
Born in this world of sin;
Each one follows the path
Trod by all other men.

“What path, you ask,
Do all take but this babe?”
The path of sin and death
That leads only to the grave.

"But He died, too,
I heard you say."
And so He did,
But in a different way.

For this babe in a manger
Had no sin of His own.
He lived a perfect life,
And for my sin did atone.

"Atone, what does it mean?"
I hear you ask again.
A holy God will punish
Each and every sin.

I have sinned much against
The just and holy King.
And He cannot ignore my sin,
But the punishment will bring.

"But God is love!" you protest.
Yes, but surely you must see
That only a bad and wicked judge
Would set a murderer free.

God will punish sin
Wherever it may be.
But this same God made
A way of hope for you and me.

Amazing as it will sound
To any sane man's ear;
God the Father placed my sin
On the Son He loved so dear.

The penalty for all my sins
Which should have come on me,
God placed it on His only Son
As He hung on the tree.

Jesus, perfect sinless Lamb,
Cursed by God upon that tree.
God poured out His holy anger
On His Son instead of me!

Three days later Jesus rose again
Then He went back up to heaven.
God tells us to repent and believe
On the precious Son He's given.

For it is this Jesus,
Who in a manger lay;
He will be the judge
Of all the world one day.

That day is coming sooner
Than generally believed.
Please seek God, get ready,
And do not be deceived.

Only those who follow Jesus,
Those whom God's will obey;
Only they will be rejoicing
On that great judgment day.

‘Tis the story of the babe
Who in the manger lay.
Repent, believe, and follow Jesus
For He is the only way.

Thank you for your time,
And we plead with you again:
Remember Jesus didn't stay a baby,
But He paid the price for sin.

~ Mr. Tracy Tyson ~
New Mexico, USA
 

---

THE MESSAGE OF CHRISTMAS

We see the signs of Christmas in August down our way
For signs go up outside the pubs, please book for Christmas day

Then Autumn comes and shops join in with cards and tinsel too
enticing us to buy the gifts and for those we need to pay

November comes with cold and frost, it has the message too.
Don’t leave it late, it's time to plan your Christmas day

The music industry joins in race expecting us to buy
The song that will be top they hope as Christmas passes by

December comes and things speed up. they chop down many trees
and sell them on the market place together with the greens

You need Turkey and food shopping just get them all today,
The shops stay open many hours to help us on our way

Santa’s in the shopping mall with Rudolf and with sleigh
The children all excited, queue with parents him to see with lists of things for him to bring,
On the visit they all expect upon that special day

As Christmas dawns upon us The people finish work
They stop and go to party’s, watch programs on T.V.
But the message that they do not hear is the message that you bring
Lord help us to be quiet and hear the Angels sing.

George Knowles, England
 

---

HEAVEN’S GIFT

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be made rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

Oh! The wonder, the majesty of that glorious night!
When Heaven’s star shown so bright!
A little babe lay in a manger still,
Born in time to do His Father’s will.

Was this the One promised of old?
Was this the One the prophets foretold?
Was this the King of glory?
Is this babe the Subject of the gospel story?

Yes! God the Son in humility is born!
In human flesh, but the world met Him with scorn.
The King of kings, the Lord of lords is here;
Yet, sinful mankind didn’t hold Him dear.

Was there room for Him in the inn?
Alas! Sadly no room for Him in the hearts of men!
Why was there no room for Glory’s King?
The One about whom the angels sing.

But is there room for Him in my heart?
Oh, come Lord Jesus and never depart!
My heart’s door is open for Thee to fill;
Make me a channel of blessing to do Thy will.

Oh, Savior to whom shall we go?
The soul’s longing to fully know?
Oh, Lord thou art my satisfying desire!
Come, Heaven’s Gift, set my heart on fire!

Glorious King, thou laid aside Thy crown,
Precious Savior, Thou didst come down.
The gift of heaven has come to earth!
Come, ye people, let us celebrate His birth!

Gene Griffin
 

---

This poem was written in response to a sermon the author
heard a couple of years ago about the trivialisation of Christmas.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Galaxies of stars collide,
Within this baby's gentle smile
The universe it comprehends,
All propositions reconcile.

All languages articulate,
Upon this tiny wordless tongue
No ciphers, arcane alphabets,
Nor futures musics lie unsung.

Empires crumble into dust,
Within this feeble childish grip
Powers and potentates deflate,
All world ambitions earthward slip.

Behold the universe a child,
The nth to nth, the all of all,
Physics turned upon its head,
The cosmos in an ass's stall.

Computer, fiddle, astrolabe
He's mastered in an eyelid's blink,
All centuries to come foreseen,
All ages into moments shrink,

All possibilities subsumed,
All worlds explored, all hearts beguiled,
So do not with a trivial thought
Deride this terrifying child.

Christopher Shepheard
 

---

THE VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS

‘Twas the very first Christmas, when over the earth,
The angels rejoiced at the sweet Savior’s birth,
The stars filled the night in a brilliant display,
Above their Creator asleep in the hay;

The wise men laid gifts by the trough filled with straw,
Then bowing before Him, they worshipped in awe,
Joseph held Mary in a loving embrace,
As teardrops of joy trickled down her sweet face;

The glow of God’s eyes shone from heaven that night,
Adorning His Son with their Glorious Light;
And Jesus, so tiny, lay peacefully still,
How blessed the promises He would fulfill,

That babe in the manger, so helpless and small,
Would lay down His life as atonement for all,
Death would be crushed and the veil, at last, torn,
For unto the world, a Savior was born.

Casey Smith
 

---

MANGER OF MERCY

In a Manger of Mercy
A little baby sleeps;
Surrounded by angels,
Whilst little lambs bleat.
A miracle birth so simple
For our Savior so sweet.
The King of all Kings—
No palace did greet.
Just a simple manger,
All decked out with hay;
A Manger of Mercy
‘Twas God’s destined way.

Led by a bright star in the East,
Wise men came to worship the Messiah.
Angels assisted their way as did
This star, so much brighter and higher.
It wasn’t the Jews
Who came to worship this child,
But three wise Magi instead
Found the babe meek and mild.
Lying in a manger,
So simple but secure,
For his parents couldn’t find an inn;
A stable was all they could procure.

It was a custom in those days
To offer gifts, an act of homage,
To princes or those of rank;
Profound joy after such a long voyage.
In this baby sleeping peacefully
They recognized Divinity.
Fell down on the ground;
Worshiped the Son of The Almighty.
As was the custom,
Gifted gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Whilst this worship took place,
Baby Jesus failed to stir.

Herod requested the wise men
To report such a sighting,
But they received a dream
That failed to be inviting.
To hold such a communication
With this wicked King,
Would have meant the baby’s death,
So no message did they bring.
Instead they took another route,
As instructed by God,
Who admonished their faith,
Having taken a path no Jew had trod.

Joseph dreamt a dream that instructed him
To take Mary and flee to Egypt.
The safety of this child;
The gifts of these wise men equipped.
Safe from King Herod
Bent on destruction,
Of all young male children,
Due to his jealousy of induction.
This Manger of Mercy was simple,
But kept baby Jesus alive;
Part of God’s amazing plans
For this whole world to survive.

In this Manger of Mercy,
God made His greatest sacrifice.
Offered up His only Son;
For none other could suffice.
He was crucified on Calvary,
That we may be redeemed.
In this Manger of Mercy;
His Father above to be esteemed.

Maureen LeFanue
Copyright © 2007-2009
www.godsgreetings.org
 

---

BELLS OF CHRISTMAS MORNING

Morning chime, church bells ring,
through snow filled crystal air.
As hand’s cool slap to sting,
snap of cold against cheeks fair.

“Oh Holy Night”,
hymn of ages chime.
Stars above, long ago sight,
heaven’s light years shine.

“Away In The Manger”,
song of Savior’s birth.
Baby born a stranger,
to many who walk this earth.

“Silent Night”,
holiness in silence.
Stillness lit by starlight,
broken by bell’s brilliance.

“Hark The Herald Angels Sing”,
newborn King to praise.
Angelic voices ring,
rose against moon’s phase.

“What Child Is This?”
wonder Child innocent.
Mother marvels baby’s kiss,
aware of future advent.

Ring, oh ring, Christmas Day,
bells cry out His praise.
Listen as church bells pray,
holiness of Son, chimes raise.

Roger W Hancock
(c) Copyright 12-26-03
www.PoetPatriot.com

For more Christmas poems by Roger, visit www.PoetPatriot.com/poemsholychristmas.htm
 

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NO ROOM (Luke 2. 17)

No room at the Inn
The place was bursting full
The people they had travelled there
Though dale and over hill
Caesar gave his orders
That a Census should be done
And to the place where they were born
The people had to come

The light outside was fading
The night had almost come
They were eating drinking talking
Sharing where they had come from
When at the door there came a knock
That stopped them in there tracks
They looked and saw a man there
They shrugged and turned there backs

Behind him stood his pregnant wife
With pain upon her face
We have travelled far the man said
Is there room here in this place?
No room the people shouted
They stopped them coming in
They saw the plight the man was in
But they turned away there face

The Inn-Keeper felt sorry
Went over and then said
I have nothing here to offer you
But a stable for a bed
Some straw and clean blankets
Is all that I can give
The couple smiled and thanked him
Saying that will have to do

So it was our Lord was born two thousand years ago
At that town called Bethlehem
Came to his world to be with us, with the cattle looking on
Today as we remember ,those events of long ago
Let us make room for Jesus ,as we celebrate his birth
Amid the toys and gifts and Santa and his sleigh
Open our hearts and make him King
Not leave him in the hay

There will come a day when each of us
Will stand at Heavens gate
A day when we need shelter and a welcome in that place
What we do now will help decide
Our everlasting fate, will we go in?
Will we be told? Well done my trusted friend
Or will we find the gates shut tight
And hear sorry there’s No Room

George Knowles
 

---

OUR JESUS FROM GALILEE

It must have been a long hard trip
Into Bethlehem that day.
Mary’s thoughts were filled with wondering
As they slowly went their way.

She wondered why the Lord chose her,
To be the Mother of his Son,
She thought of what His life would bring
What lay ahead for this Holy One.

At last the day was over
The inn was now in sight,
A place to rest her weary body
For this might be the night.

No room they said- no room at all,
And Mary’s head did nod.
What was His plan? This was His Son
She would have to trust in God

A worried frown crossed Joseph’s brow,
He knew Mary’s time was near.
We have to have a place he said,
We can not go from here.

The stable then, he pointed out,
That’s the best that I can do
There is no room within the inn
That I can offer you.

We know not, if it was a building,
Or a cave against the hill.
Where she laid her precious Baby
In a manger dark and still.

But, a KING was born that night
A King to set us free,
We praise Him now, and love Him
Our Jesus from Galilee.

Jeanette Rogers
 

---

HEAVEN’S GIFT

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21
For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be made rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

Oh! The wonder, the majesty of that glorious night!
When Heaven’s star shown so bright!

A little babe lay in a manger still,
Born in time to do His Father’s will.
Was this the One promised of old?
Was this the One the prophets foretold?

Was this the King of glory?
Is this babe the Subject of the gospel story?
Yes! God the Son in humility is born!
In human flesh, but the world met Him with scorn.

The King of kings, the Lord of lords is here;
Yet, sinful mankind didn’t hold Him dear.
Was there room for Him in the inn?
Alas! Sadly no room for Him in the hearts of men!

Why was there no room for Glory’s King?
The One about whom the angels sing.
But is there room for Him in my heart?
Oh, come Lord Jesus and never depart!

My heart’s door is open for Thee to fill;
Make me a channel of blessing to do Thy will.
Oh, Savior to whom shall we go?
The soul’s longing to fully know?

Oh, Lord thou art my satisfying desire!
Come, Heaven’s Gift, set my heart on fire!
Glorious King, thou laid aside Thy crown,
Precious Savior, Thou didst come down.

The gift of heaven has come to earth!
Come, ye people, let us celebrate His birth!

Gene Griffin

Poems by Gene Griffin

Gene has written many wonderful and inspiring Christian poems, each based on a Bible verse. He has shared a number of them with us and we have placed them together on their own web page. Just click on the above link to visit Gene's web page of truly inspirational poems.

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The following four Christmas poems were submitted by Tom Zart, the most published poet on the web:

NIGHT OF NIGHTS

In the tiny town of Bethlehem,
Born in a stable, an infant lie.
While he slept his first dreamless night,
A whole universe of stars passed by.

When Jesus Christ our savior was born
Most of the angels began to sing,
Of peace, and good will to all mankind,
And alleluia to earth's new king.

There were those angels, who did not sing,
For they had passed through the devil's gate.
They knew this young lad belonged to God,
And for them salvation was too late.

So let's rejoice, and sing with great cheer,
That night when Jesus slept without fear.
For our Lord's birthday comes once a year,
On that night of nights we hold so dear.

~ Tom Zart ~


CREDIT CARD CHRISTMAS

Christmas is coming and our cards are all maxed.
My wife says don't fret, just try to relax.
But her car needs brakes, and mine needs new tires.
Tax time is coming, and yet, we're still buyers.

For beneath our tree, there’s one empty place
Which we’ll buy gifts for that will fill up the space.
Cause what fun is Christmas if we can't give out gifts
That kids tear open as the snow outside drifts.

We’ll light up the fire, and have a Christmas feast.
Say thank you to God, for saving us from the beast.
It may seem silly, but we can 't help but share.
It's that time of year to show others we care.

~ Tom Zart ~


CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Red, gold, yellow, green and blue
Are the colors of Christmas, which glow.
They help us feel their value within
As we travel our way through the snow.

Red stands for passion, anger or desire
Gold is the steadiness of love.
Yellow is fear of the unforeseen
Green and blue are the stars above.

The luster of Christmas can be yours
Most anywhere at a nearby store.
To purchase and adorn your tree and home.
Celebrating life, Jesus and more.

~ Tom Zart ~


CHRISTMAS

Husbands with ladders hang lights on their home,
As all who have no one feel sad and alone.
The churches are full of the faithful that sing,
For the birth of our Lord, is a spiritual thing.

The sound of Christmas sweetly fills the air,
While frantic shoppers hustle from here to there.
The windows of storefronts at this time of year,
Reflect all their wonders as Christmas draws near.

Little ones stand looking with their nose pressed to glass,
As model trains on display come speeding past.
The path to Santa is lined with girls and boys,
With a list in their heart of their favorite toys.

The stores shelves are crammed with dolls that crawl or walk,
Games, cars, trucks, planes and stuffed toys that sing or talk.
The miracle of Christmas comes once a year,
When all that we love seems more precious and dear.

~ Tom Zart ~
 

---

TAKE TIME

‘Twas the season of Christmas, abuzz and astir
with the buying and wrapping of Christmas gifts this year.
I was ever so busy, I just didn’t have time
to spend on my knees, or read a few lines.

And as Christmas drew nearer, the busier I got,
I couldn’t go to church now, that was prime time to shop.
I was so sure that Jesus would really understand,
I’d take time for him later, when I had no more plans.

But I wakened one morning, with much to do that day,
And as I rushed out the door, I thought I heard someone say
“Can you not take five minutes of your most precious time
And spend it with an old Friend, and share what’s on your mind ?

It has really been lonely since you have stopped praying
For I miss talking with you, as the dawn is breaking.
Getting ready for Christmas should never, ever mean,
That you just don’t have time for your Savior, Lord and King.

The Reason for the season, the Hope of all the earth,
That Special Gift from heaven, of blessed Virgin Birth.
Put Christ back into Christmas, give him his rightful place,
Celebrate God’s gift of love to the whole human race.

As I stood there and listened, hot tears flooded my eyes,
I asked God to forgive me, and help me to be wise.
Now I start every morning as I used to before,
Spending time in his Presence, receiving from his store.

I will celebrate Christmas with a heart full of joy,
for that Babe in the manger, the little Christ boy.

Gertrude Jefferies
 

---

THE STAR

In the shady grove of trees
I watched and listened, mind at ease.
My soul took flight, traveling afar,
To where it saw a gleaming star.
The star showed me my sins abounding;
I wept for they were so astounding.
The star then spoke, a voice so holy,
Of its only son’s sacrifice and glory.
That son had died for us to live,
To praise his name, and to others give.
The star that shone with everlasting light
Gave one last gift that marvelous night.
That gift was one to live in me
To guide my life so patiently;
It keeps my trust in the great star,
It will not let me stray too far.
That night in my memory will always be
The night the star came to set me free.

Rachel L. Miller, TN, USA
 

---

JESUS IS CHRISTMAS TO ME!

Jesus is Christmas to me!
I enjoy the presents and the Christmas tree,
the many dishes on the table spread,
like cranberries, ham, turkey and homemade bread.
But, still, he's Christmas to me!

Jesus is Christmas to me!
I enjoy being with friends and family,
watching grandkids in the Christmas play,
and hearing from others living far away.
But, still, he's Christmas to me!

Jesus is Christmas to me!
And for good reason, it's easy to see.
It's when we celebrate the Savior's birth,
when the Son of God came to planet earth.
Yes, he's Christmas to me!

Jesus is Christmas to me!
And will be throughout eternity.
For he left his glory in heaven above
to die on a cross because of his love.
Yes, he's Christmas to me!

Bruce Oyen
Written on December 4, 2006
 

---

Happy Birthday JESUS

Happy birthday my Lord JESUS,
I’m so glad You came,
I apologize for my brethren,
The way You were treated, I’m ashamed.

What gift could I possibly give You?
That You don’t already possess,
It’s because of Your sacrifice,
All my birthdays have been blessed.

On this very special day,
All of the saints and I,
Pray in humble sincerity,
For there are many reasons why.

Our birthdays soon will be,
To numerous to mention,
I know from reading the bible,
This was Your intention,

Every year for us,
Brings something new,
Just another reason,
To celebrate Yours too,

We could never receive,
A gift greater than life,
Birthdays wouldn’t mean anything,
Without Your selfless sacrifice.

Of course we’d be,
Another year in the books,
Wrinkles and gray hair,
With much older looks.

Celebrations would be over,
With the very last breath,
There would be no birthdays,
Only our untimely death.

Only through YOUR mercy and grace,
Are we able to go to that place.
Being saved and born again,
Where our birthdays will never end.

Luke Easter
 

---

JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

The presents are tucked
By the tree neatly trimmed
Children are excited
As gift giving begins.

Loved ones and friends
Gather as before
To hear the story of Christmas
Told by Grandpa once more.

Everything is ready,
The celebration starts
But something is missing
Could it be in my heart?

Could Christmas be more
Than gifts under a tree?
The true meaning of the season
I really want to see.

My heart begins to ponder,
My thoughts see the sight
Of that very first Christmas,
The holiest of nights.

Angels praise and worship,
Shepherds share the sight
Of God's wondrous promise,
A King is born tonight!

I understand the difference,
The reason is crystal clear
It's JESUS who makes the season
Of family and friends and cheer.

Without the birth of Jesus
The celebration would be gone
HE brings the love of family
HE brings the joy of song.

People would still be lonely,
No hope would fill their way
Jesus is the reason for the season
It is HIS special day!

H. Alan Roth

---

A CHRISTMAS LESSON

"Is there a purpose? Why are we here?" A little boy asked as the yuletide drew near.
"I really do hope that someday I will know the reason we stand out here in the snow,
ringing this bell as people walk by while thousands of snowflakes
descend from the sky."

The mother just smiled at her shivering son
who would rather be playing and having some fun
but soon would discover before evening was done
the meaning of Christmas the very first one.

The young boy exclaimed, "Mother where does it go?"
"All the pennies we collect - every year in the snow."
"Why do we do it? Why do we care?"
"We worked for these pennies so why should we share?"

"Because once a baby - so meek and so mild
was born in a manger - so humble the child
the son of a King - was born in this way
to give us the message He carried that day.

"The present God gave the world on that night,
was the gift of his son to make everything right.
Why did he do it? Why did he care?,
to teach about loving and how we should share."

"The meaning of Christmas, you see my dear son,
is not about presents or just having fun
but the gift of a father - his own precious Son
so the world would be saved when his work was all done"

Now the little boy smiled - with a tear in his eye
as snowflakes kept falling from out of the sky -
rang louder the bell as the people walked by
while down deep in his heart at last he knew why.

Copyright © Tom Krause, 2003
 

---

WHAT'S SANTA GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Joseph and Mary traveled afar,
For the delivery of the world's Savior and Friend.
Born in a tiny manger,
Because there was no room in the Inn.

December 25 marks the birth,
of our beloved Savior's birthday.
Yet its being replaced
by a jolly man in a sleigh.

Jesus was given in birth,
To save all of creation,
and we've given up his birthday
for a figment of the imagination.

There is only one Savior born into this world,
to save us from our sin.
Which leaves the question in my mind,
How does Santa fit in?

I've been told, that there were
heavenly angels singing.
But no one said anything about
any sleigh bells ringing.

The angels were singing,
ho-ly, ho-ly, ho-ly,
not Ho Ho Ho.
But some how this phrase has stolen the show.

Yes there were men with beards,
bringing gold, frankincense, and myrrh,
but no one ever mentioned Santa,
Giving Jesus anything at birth.

Yes there were animals present.
Donkeys, lamb, cattle and steer,
but somehow I don't recall the mentioning,
of 8 tiny reindeer.

Yes there was a star on high,
Shining ever so bright.
But believe me, it wasn't Rudolph's nose
displaying any light.

Think about it friends,
just what would you say,
If everyone you loved,
Forgot your birthday.

You might say what can you give one,
who holds the world in his hand.
Who knows every hair on your head,
and can count the grains of sand.

Glorify him in the highest,
Our beloved Savior and friend.
And to the ones on earth give
peace, love and good will to men.

Althea F. James

---

THE STRANGER

At Christmas time there was a man
Who looked so out of place,
As people rushed about him
At a hurried sort of pace.

He stared at all the Christmas lights,
The tinsel everywhere,
The shopping center, Santa Claus,
With children gathered near.

The Mall was packed with shoppers
Who were going to and fro,
Some with smiles and some with frowns
And some too tired to go.

They rested on the benches
Or they hurried on their way,
To fight the crowd for purchases
To carry home that day.

The music from a stereo
Was playing loud and clear
Of Santa Claus, and snow men,
And a funny-nosed reindeer.

He heard the people talk about
The good times on the way,
Of parties, fun, and food galore,
And gifts exchanged that day.

"I'd like to know what's going on,"
The man was heard to say,
"There seems to be some sort of
Celebration on the way."

"And would you tell me who this is,
All dressed in red and white?
And why are children asking him
About a special night?"

The answer came in disbelief,
I can't believe my ears!
I can't believe you do not know
That Christmas time is here,

The time when Santa comes around
With gifts for girls and boys,
When they're asleep on Christmas,
He leaves them books and toys.

The man you see in red and white
Is Santa Claus, so sly,
The children love his joyful laugh
And twinkle in his eye.

His gift packed sleigh is pulled along
By very small reindeer,
As he flies quickly through the air,
While darting here and there.

The children learn of Santa
While they are still quite small.
When Christmas comes, he is the most
Important one of all.

The stranger hung his head in shame,
He closed a nail-pierced hand.
His body shook in disbelief;
He did not understand.

A shadow crossed his stricken face,
His voice was low but clear,
"After all these years, they still don't know."
And Jesus shed a tear.

~Author Unknown~

---

REMEMBER WHY

Many years ago, a star appeared one night
Pointing to the birth, of a very special light
The birth of one small child, in a manger on that day
Would forever change the world, in a very special way!

This child would live and grow, though Satan wished him dead
This child would live and grow, just as God had said
This child would live and grow, exposing evil's lie
This child had come to life, so that he might die!

As the years went by, this child grew to a man
Touching all the world, with a very special plan
Lest we all forget, just why he came to live
Let us all remember, what he came to give!

And on this day of joy, that we all celebrate
As we've rushed all week, so we would not be late
Let us all remember, this one most awesome sight
The child born in the manger, is coming back in might!

May God Bless You On This Very Special Day
All My Love
Jay :o)
(c) Jay L. Zumbrum

---

A SHEPHERD BOY

My Brothers and I were tending our flocks,
on a clear and peaceful night.
When up in the sky, a star appeared,
it's brilliance strong and bright.

As we gazed upon this glorious star,
an Angel of God appeared.
And spoke these words in the glory of God,
there is nothing to be feared.

I bring good tidings, the Angel said,
good tidings filled with joy.
For on this day a child is born,
yes, a precious baby boy.

A Savior is born upon this day,
your Savior, Christ the Lord.
In the city of David, you will find,
this child to be adored.

Then our Angel was suddenly not alone,
but was joined by his Heavenly kin.
Glory to God in the highest, they sang,
peace on earth, good will to men.

Then the Angels of God were gone away,
the ones that God had sent.
Filled with excitement, we gathered our flocks,
and to Bethlehem we went.

We told everyone we passed that night,
even telling a total stranger.
Til we found Joseph and Mary, his wife,
and the Christ child in a manger.

Around the child stood three wise men,
of this we all concur.
They praised the child and gave him gifts,
of frankincense, gold and myrrh.

Then as they departed back to their lands,
Mary spoke to me so mild.
Please come closer, don't be afraid,
come close and see the child.

I knelt before the manger bed,
and in awe my silence fell.
As a feeling swept straight through my soul,
no words could ever tell.

I took the child's little, tiny hand,
and I kissed his finger tips.
And with each kiss, his precious touch,
brought praises to my lips.

The Savior child looked in my eyes,
and I knew that moment's worth.
My lips had touched, my eyes had seen,
the Savior of this earth.

We had no gifts to offer the King,
and my sadness slowly grew.
Then Joseph said, with a loving voice,
he is Heaven's gift to you.

My Brothers and I, then took our leave,
and we spread the word around.
We told everyone the things we saw,
we told everyone in town.

But no one we told believed our words,
and the witness that we bare.
They laughed at us and called us mad,
and no one seemed to care.

But we Brothers know the things we saw,
and the child we adored.
And how the Angels came to us,
proclaiming Christ the Lord.

My life will never be the same,
my heart so filled with joy.
It humbles me, that the Father God,
chose me, A Shepherd Boy.

Written by..Timothy Jon Barrett
Date Written...December 4, 1999

---

LET'S PUT CHRIST FIRST

Let's put Christ first in Christmas
For that's where he belongs,
Before the chorus of Jingle Bells
Let's praise our Lord in song.
Before the merry ho! ho! ho!
Let's have a quiet thought
Of that first Christmas long ago,
The changes that it wrought.

We know him well when we see him
A baby in a manger,
But when we see him as a man
He then becomes a stranger.
Let's praise our Lord and Saviour
As we celebrate his birth,
And when the season's over
Let us still put him first.

Mary Melton, USA

---

THE GREATEST GIFT

The greatest gift ever given
Did not come from a store
It was not given for a birthday
But no gift has ever meant more
The greatest gift ever given
Was a gift of pure love
No greater gift will ever be received
Because this gift came from above
The greatest gift ever given
Was paid for at the highest price
To you for your salvation
The Gift of Jesus Christ

Jackie Clemons (Florida)

---

Mary Did You Know

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you delivered will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
When your kiss your little baby boy you've kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak the praises of the Lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creations?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is Heavens perfect Lamb?
The sleeping child you're holding, is the Great I Am.

Mary... did you know?

By Mark Lowry

---

GOD'S OWN SON

As Mary rocks her baby boy
She's filled with sadness, filled with joy
She looks upon that tiny face
And sees the hope of every race.

Her heart is filled with a mother's glow
and she never wants to let him go.
She'll see him run and laugh and play
And longs to keep him safe each day.

His life won't be an easy one,
His destiny hard, as God's Own Son.

Mary sees the miracles he'll perform,
The lepers healed and free from scorn.
The lame will walk, the blind will see.
She sees his love will set us free.

And then she sees him on a cross.
She feels his pain and feels our loss.
She knows his life must come to this,
She sheds a tear and gives a kiss.

His life won't be an easy one,
His destiny hard, as God's Own Son.

So as Christmas time draws near
And we are all so "busy" here,
With shopping, baking, trees of green
Let's ask, what does this really mean?

Let's take a moment from the fuss,
And think of all gifts to us;
A mother's love, a baby boy,
Peace and comfort, love and joy.

For he was born for everyone,
His destiny, GOD'S ONLY SON.

Author Unknown

---

WISEMEN

The prophets foretold His coming
So all the world would know
The Messiah would very soon be born
Then one day... it was so!
The wise men brought the young child gifts
Gold, frankincense and myrrh
And worshipped Him, who on the cross
Would one day bring sin's cure.
Now these same prophets told us too
That Jesus would come again
To gather all the pure in heart...
Those cleansed from inbred sin.
How many wise men will there be
Prepared to leave that day?
For it's just those with sins forgiven
That shall be caught away.
So at this Christmas time of year
We bring these thoughts to you
And pray to God with all our might
You'll be among the Wise Men too.

Kathryn Souza-Wine

---

VALENTINE'S DAY

~ Sis. Terri Monique McNeil-Holloway ~
 

---

VALENTINES FROM HEAVEN

Be my Valentine dear JESUS,
draw me closer to your heart.
Be mine this day, forever,
keep me near when we're apart.

A Love that none can match,
I cherish on this day,
and give you back my Love,
that will lift you up I Pray.

A Love that was freely given,
from the cross reached out to all,
as a perfect Love was forming,
through a heart that knew no flaw.

This act was a prime example,
what Valentines really should be.
Share Love with all around you,
give unselfish and give it free.

Thank you Lord for Loving me,
I know you'll never quit.
This Godly Love, so sweet and warm,
from the throne on which you sit.

Please help me be more like you,
to give unconditional Love,
tell others how the Almighty does it,
lets his SON shine from above.

So be my Valentine Jesus,
you're my first Love and my last,
You're the Love that guides my future,
you're the Love that healed my past.

This Love is closely guarded,
sent straight from Heaven's doors.
Be my Valentine forever
and I too will be yours.

Written by..Timothy Jon Barrett

---

REMEMBRANCE DAY POEM

REMEMBRANCE DAY

    What does the poppy mean to me?
It tells of the blood that flowed so free;
    The kind of blood, so I've been told
Has been traded, bought, and sold.

    They went to war, lost their lives;
What about their relatives, children, wives?
    Now all that's left is a bit of time
Dedicated to ones lost in their prime.

    There should be more, than just a stone
With the names of those not home.
    There should be a service in which to tell
Of those we lost in an earthly hell.

    There should be people who were there
To lead us all in a silent prayer;
    To pray lost lives were not in vain;
That others won't need to bear the pain;

    To tell us of the bombs and guns
That spilled the blood of mothers' sons.
    Those that came home, should tell the story
Of the ones that died in glory.

We must remember what happened there;
    We can't forget, No! we don't dare.

Written in 1983 by Geoff VanderMolen, age 13, Grade 8
Bowmanville, Ontario

---

NEW YEAR'S EVE/NEW YEAR'S DAY POEMS

THE LORD WILL BE NEAR IN THE NEW YEAR!

The Lord will be near in the new year.
This is his promise, so be of good cheer!
Face it with faith, not with fear,
For every day he will be near.

Near, to comfort and console.
Near, to soothe a hurting soul.
Near, to lead us to our heavenly goal.
Near, when trials have taken their toll.

Near, to give us what is best.
Near, to assure us we are blest.
Near, to bring our weary hearts rest.
Near, to strengthen us for every test.

Near, to restore us when we stray.
Near, to forgive us when we pray.
Near, to help us start a new day.
Near, near, come what may.

By Pastor Bruce Oyen, B. A., M. A., D. Min.
Written on December 17, 2006

---

ANOTHER YEAR IS DAWNING

Another year is dawning,
Dear Father let it be,
In working or in waiting,
Another year with thee.

Another year of progress,
Another year of praise,
Another year of proving
Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies,
Of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness,
The glory of thy face.

Another year of leaning
Upon thy loving breast,
Another year of trusting,
Of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service,
Of witness for thy love,
Another year of training
For holier work above.

Another year is dawning,
Dear Father, let it be,
On earth, or else in heaven,
Another year for thee.

Frances R. Havergal

---

               At Year's End
The year you gave us, Lord, is ending;
a year of your amazing grace.
Your loving care our ways attending
marked all its months and weeks and days.

Tonight - while on your word reflecting -
we thank you for your steadfast love
which in confirming and correcting
gave us your guidance from above.

We must confess that sometimes, erring,
your guiding hand we did not heed;
that boastful pride and stubborn daring
caused us to sin in word and deed.

We thank you, Father, for forgiving
our sin for things undone or wrong;
we praise you that we may be living
in trust that we to Christ belong.

The years that pass away remind us
that earth is no abiding place;
that soon this life will be behind us,
and that we'll meet you face to face.

But you, our God, are ever living.
How blessed are we if we depend
on Christ; the life which he is giving
will never fade and never end.

Johannes DeViet
Suggested tune: "The Day You Gave Us, Lord, Is Ended" (#318 in new CRC Ps. H.)

---

               At New Year's
Lord God, our times are in your hand;
the years roll by at your command.
Our lives are gifts which you bestow;
please, teach us so to count the flow
of years, and months, and weeks, and days
that grace-taught wisdom marks our ways.

Now, as we enter this new year,
we ask you, Lord, stay always near;
direct and guard each step we take,
correct us when wrong turns we make;
teach us by what we say and do
to show that we belong to you.

We don't know what the future holds;
we'll see that as your plan unfolds.
Lord, give us strength and faith to trust
that what you do is ever just,
that when we do not understand
your ways, we're still held by your hand.

We've made your world a frightful place
of ethnic hate and pride of race;
there's warfare and religious strife.
O Lord, show us that in this life
you want us to reflect Christ's love:
we need your guidance from above.

Lord, let your church a lighthouse be,
a haven of security;
a port where love and justice reign,
where Christ who for our sins was slain
is preached, and where each clan and race
may join in God's unending praise.

Johannes DeViet
Suggested tune: "Creator Spirit, by Whose Aid" (#425 in new CRC Ps. H.)

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