#19 – My March to the Manger.

I celebrated Jesus’ birth
as long as I can recall.
The scenery of the holy birth
was mingled with toys at the mall.

I preached many Christmas sermons
and I think I preached them well
But although my life was blessed
each year
there was only a partial swell.

At a new church where I was sent
a miracle came to me
They had a March to the Manger
which seemed very strange to me.

They insisted that we do it
so I was forced to go along.
It touched my life in a special way
like I had entered in a song.

The babe in a crude manger
placed at the front of the church
set a beautiful paradigm
and completed my life-long search.

It was like I accompanied
those who visited on that night
and my heart and spirit were touched
and everything felt just right.

This year when you make your list
of those to whom you will give
include the most important one
who died so you might live.

Bow down at a lowly manger
at your church or in your heart
and give your greatest gift to him
so with joy you will depart.