Christmas Presence

The Christmas Presence

“Tis the season to be jolly” rings throughout the halls.
But loneliness and disillusion close ‘round me like four walls.
Lord, give me Christmas presence.

“I’ll be home for Christmas” is what most people say,
But empty chairs and unused plates are seen on Christmas Day.
Lord, give me Christmas presence.

“Peace on earth, good will toward men?” Is this fantasy real?
With wars abroad and wars at home; harsh words that smiles conceal.
Lord, give me Christmas presence.

“He’s making a list and checking it twice”; the expectation’s high.
But jobs are lost and cupboards bare, can I make it by?
Lord, give me Christmas presence.

“People passing, children laughing” with gifts so neatly wrapped.
But where the tree stood yesteryear, still stands that dusty lamp.
Lord, give me Christmas presence.

Not the presents wrapped with gold,
The kind that money buys:
That cordless drill, the box of mints,
No not those ugly ties.

But Christmas presence, oh so sweet,
With Holy Spirit near.
When hearts are warmed and joy abounds;
His gift to us so dear.

In Christmas presence I now stand
All worldly cares aside.
I bow my head, He hears my prayer,
His arms are open wide.

While others have “A Merry Little Christmas” with gifts and elves and bows,
I stand complete within His love, surrounded by life’s woes,
Because God gives Christmas Presence.

December 2008