The Magic of Christmas Is Holy

I have some dear friends who attend my church. Their names are James Milburn and his mom, Jean. James is a retired Air Force Staff Sergeant. His mom is as sweet and pleasant a lady as ever was born. James is always there to give me a pleasant greeting and an encouraging word. When Christmas rolls around he never forgets my family. I get a card from him every year.

This year he gave me a card and a special Christmas piece written by his mom. Since this blog is just a place for some ramblin' it seemed fittin' that I should share this beautiful writing by Jean Milburn.

The Magic Of Christmas
Is Holy

Why is Christmas so commercialized,

    So covered with glitter and fantasized?

Well, it goes way back to one Wondrous night,

    There was a star in the East that was awesome bright.

While shepherds guarding their sheep gazed with awe,

    Our Precious Savior lay asleep in the straw.

With all the Wonders this birth brought about,

    Faith and Hope and Charity no doubt.

There's a desire to reach out amidst the glow,

    Wish "Merry Christmas" to folks we don't even know.

The Manger Scene is displayed on the mantle,

    The flame from the candle so soft and gentle.

We think of old friends we love so much,

    Send greeting cards to keep us in touch.

The first of the gifts were from there wise men.

    And that's how the gift of giving began.

There's shopping to do in the Christmas rush,

    Remembering those not as fortunate as us.

Little sleepy heads cannot sleep they're so thrilled,

    Santa's bringing toys and their stockings will be filled.

Enjoy the music and the Christmas bells.

    Give thanks for the glorious story it tells.

The magic is Holy that looms in the air.

    And only God's Christ Child can put it there.

When Christmas preparations are finally done,

    Family and friends enjoy Holiday fun.

Embrace the Season that is Spiritually divine,

    Because the Magic is Holy and it's been there all the time.

Celebrate the season it will always hold true.

The Greatest of Gifts He has given to you.

Hazlewood

Some time ago I'd been working with some people, former prison inmates and their families; just sharin' the love of Jesus with them, tryin' to meet their needs. A man (name's James Hazlewood) was helping. At some point during the evening's activities he stepped up to me and shoved a napkin into my hand with some writin' on it. I put it in my pocket nonchalant like. Later, when I got home, I pulled the napkin outa my pocket and read it. What a blessing. Thanks pard. You're a blessing.

This is what he wrote. I just call it...

                           Hazlewood

Just an old Gospel cowboy ridin' on a wilderness range;
But he rides for the Master, gathering up His strays.

And he seeks for halt and lame ones and ornery crosseyed bulls;
He knows they are all precious to the Savior who he serves.

When at last the herd is gathered safe in the heavenly home;
He'll hear his name called softly and then "Partner, well done."