Yesterday warmed the RV for sure. It was a day totally dedicated to baking. Batches of cinnamon rolls in the oven, one cookie sheet at a time and when that was done there were PeanutButter balls to make.
This morning I discovered that one window had not gotten closed before we headed to bed last night and it was chilly in here. So, I poured a cup of coffee, cradled it in my hands, put my feet up in the recliner and watched fire flicker.
My little Nativity on the hearth, Christmas stockings Mom made years ago and cards from dear friends, warm my heart as much as the fire warms the room.
As I embraced the scene before me, I was reminded of a poem I wrote over 40 years ago. It really is my heart’s prayer. I hope you enjoy it.
Christmas Warms the Heart
Long ago and far away, a child was brought to earth.
For many years, men had sought, the signs of His birth.
On quiet hills in pastures green, the flocks they did sleep.
When shepherds woke from peaceful rest, heavens glory they did see.
When I hear this story, and remember all that’s told,
I’d like to have been a shepherd and lived those years ago.
The angels in their chorus, proclaiming Peace on Earth
Brings excitement to my soul and my heart is stirred.
To see the heavens shining bright, a glory uncompared,
Then walk the road to Bethlehem and find the Christ child fair.
To kneel before His presence and know that He was King
What more could I expect from life, His praises I will sing.
Today I see the tinsel, the glitter and the toys
The stores are filled with shoppers, laughing girls and boys,
While streets are lined with trees and Santas’ ringing bells,
Ovens filled with cookies and all those wonderful smells.
Now it is time to stop from all the things I do,
To remember that first Christmas, and it’s meaning true.
It is God’s Son, brought to earth to give eternal life,
His glory to shine within my heart, not in the sky of night.
In each of us, Christ wants to live, in power and in love
Let us proclaim, to men the same, as angels from above.
Peace on earth can only come, when before the Son we bow.
We must kneel and honor Him, our lives to Him we vow.
This year a special gift I give, not like the kings of old
It’s not the gold or frankincense but a heart that He can mold.
Many a gift I have received and have given with joyful heart
But Jesus now this gift I bring, from You I’ll never part.
O Lord, this is my honest prayer, my gift I’ll not forget
It is a lasting one to which I do commit.
My heart is warmed by Your love and the gift You gave to me,
It is in Christ and Christ alone; I find what Christmas means.
May your hearts always carry the warmth of Christmas!