The Christ of Christmas is Right Here

There has been pain this year and sadness too
As we have felt and seen all that our friends & family have gone through
Many around us are without jobs, home or even food
Ignored by the crowds that tend to be snobbish and rude.

The joy of the holidays can appear so hollow
If we forget about Jesus, the manger and all that followed.
The gifts and the candy, the turkey and pie
Are just not so important and we’d rather pass them by

The heart may ache and the body is oh so weary
As we watch so many appear way too cheery!
However the season and reason we celebrate is what gives us hope
It is what makes us go on and joyfully cope.

If Christ had not come one starry night
There would be no reason for the tree, the presents or the beautiful lights
There would be no hope in the midst of our pain
There would be no peace that we could claim.

May I encourage you our loved ones and friends so dear
That the Christ of Christmas is right here.
He knows your sadness, your fear and despair
He knows because He too has been there.

The lowly birth, the poverty and rejection were all part of His life
He was spit on, reviled and saw sadness and strife.
Never forget that He understands your pain and your grief
He hung on the cross and found no relief!

He felt alone when God turned His back as our sins He did bare
All so that His home in Heaven He could offer to share.
A perfect example of what we can do this Christmas time
Let’s share what we have, be friendly, generous and kind.

Let’s look around for someone who is sad or alone
Joyfully invite them to your humble home
Give of yourself, reach out and care
Let them know that Jesus is right there!

Ruthy Norris
Nov. 28, 2011