Poem December 21, 2009 Issue

PRAYER AT CHRISTMASTIME

Darren Stone

Help us to understand that peaceable kingdoms
are truly possible, well known to You.
To learn the way to honor peace on earth
and show we care even
for neighbors we might not like.

Teach us to know what stillness is,
so we can listen when an angel speaks,
redeeming our lives from fear,
and keeping faith secure.

May we celebrate
what Christmas really is
—the gift of living with the Christ
throughout each year—
not empty revelry over gifts
that would substitute
for loving You and everyone.

Nothing can mar the joy of cherishing
that blessed morn those centuries ago
on which a child was born—
eternal gift from You
who so loved the world
You sent Your son Immanuel to us.

—Darren Stone

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