I'd like to turn back the hands of time
To Christmas traditions of my youth
But alas the old won't do
Because we now have traditions that are new.
Singing Christmas carols in the neighborhood
Spreading the glad news
Of a Savior born in a manger
Born to die for me and you
We shared with joy back then.
Gifts once were simple and rare..
An apple, orange and simple toy
Brought such special joy.
Now choice of a gift seems so hard
So a gift certificate is placed in a card
With little thought or love there.
A simple manger scene we would display
And perform the events of that special day
With children singing in the school play
With joyeous delight
Telling of that Holy night.
The first Christmas angels sang carols of joy
To welcome the precious little boy
And now we sing "Away in the manger"
"Joy to the World" and "Oh, Holy Night
For the star shining bright
Leading shepherds to a stable
Where the Christ child lay.
Now, we are told no mention can be made
Of Christ in any way...
Not even about the day set aside to celebrate
The event of His birth
Sent by our heavenly Father to save the lost on earth
But I say Nay!
Christmas is not a winter holiday
But a celebration of our Savior's birth!
Christmas traditions old and new
Change as they often do
But they must never take away
The hope found that first Christmas day
Nor forget the precious Name
Of Jesus Christ whose love will always stay the same.
©Jane Ward Smith
December 5, 2009
Used With Permission
All Rights Reserved By Author
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