This Christmas, As I Come To Gaze (At Thy Nativity)

Recently a message I listened to contained the caution that we, as believers 

should guard against getting caught up in romanticizing the Nativity, 

easily possible when charmed by enchanting figurines... 

Sometimes, in this age of 'progressive thinkers' some so-called believers

assume the 'perks' and promises of salvation, 

God's favors and blessings 

without first entering through the Door 

of true repentance which leads to obedience. 

May we, as we search the scriptures, 

ask God to open the eyes of humbled hearts 

to seek and know the full truth of what we 'most surely believe'...

Today's poem began as I pondered parts of Luke 1.

Dear Jesus,

This Christmas as I come to gaze

At Thy nativity

May no vain thought hinder my praise

Or mar my love for Thee

With childlike faith without dispute

With stubborn will undone

With worship in spirit and truth

May I behold Thy Son

The Saviour of the World, first laid

in lowly feeding trough

Thy holiest of holy Babe

No kingly splendor sought  

That none should envy how You came

nor covet Thy renown 

The King of kings, in mortal frame 

From Heaven's throne, stepped down

Then, as I bring my gift of love

To Thy nativity

Impress on me the shadow of

the cross/Gate of Calvary

Amen~

  Janet Martin