THE REAL MEANING of CHRISTMAS by Joseph B. Ostrander Behind the trees glowing with radiant light Behind all the festive ornaments bright… Behind strands of tinsel—like angel hair Behind oversized stockings hung up with care… Behind presents wrapped up in pleasing array Behind seasonal wreaths put out on display… Behind carols sung by a choir so sweet Behind mounded platters of holiday treats… Behind countless decorations of red and green Behind hand-carved miniature nativity scenes… Behind the cold-nipped cheeks so rosy Behind blazing yuletide fires so cozy… Behind all the frenzied hustle-and-bustle Behind the sluggish shopping crowd shuffle… Behind the rush of last minute details Behind the deadline to get the cards mailed Behind short tempers that sometimes flare up Behind angry feelings that suddenly erupt… Behind countless things still left undone No wonder this season is not that much fun! How could this season be much of a joy? When I can’t assemble this new-fangled toy! I wonder if anyone could honestly find A genuine reason to be loving and kind… As I pondered this lack of joy in my soul I realized I’d forgotten this season’s true goal… Because the true meaning of Christmas, you see Was wrapped up in the Babe of the Nativity… For unto us that night a Son was given Who would die for us all and open up heaven… Angels proclaimed the dear Savior’s birth Reminding me clearly of this season’s true worth… For God gave the most precious gift He could give The gift of His Son so that all men could live… A new life without end and joy so divine That Christmas could be a more meaningful time… So when the holiday strain gets too great With gifts still unwrapped and the hour growing late… The Prince of Peace wants to calm all the fuss And renew the right meaning, of Christmas, in us! Merry Christmas! Comment
