THE OLD GENTLEMAN'S GIFT

THE OLD GENTLEMAN’S GIFT

I walked the quiet streets alone, the snow was drifting down,

The stores were closed and shuttered in this peaceful little town,

The Christmas rush was ending, for ‘twas Christmas Eve you see,

I walked in search of “peace on earth,” and inner peace in me.

“What is Christmas all about?” I spoke aloud in prayer,

“Lord, show me the true meaning so I’ll have a gift to share.”

I looked, and in the distance shone the glow of a soft light,

It was streaming from a window, giving guidance in the night.

I approached the little church house and could hear the children sing

Of the little Lord Jesus, Who was born to be our King.

So I paused and turned toward the door, hoping not to make a sound,

Then my eyes were drawn to a lovely sight before me on the ground.

I stooped to lift a red, red rose from its bed of pure white snow,

Then quietly opened the church house door, and entered the soft, warm glow.

The children told of the birth of Christ, the manger scene was there,

Then a gray-haired saint stood to his feel with a word he had to share.

He spoke of a cross, a crown of thorns, and the scarlet blood that flowed,

He told of lives washed white as snow…..and I looked at my perfect rose!

Then I heard a whisper, a voice within, “Child, you asked meaning, and why,

Oh, I loved you so much that I purchased your life.  You see, I was born to die!”

I stood in awe, the choir rose to sing, “Silent night, peace on earth, love and joy.”

Now forever I’ll share my most precious gift; Prince of Peace, Savior, Lord, Baby Boy!

(Written and published  by Alice ‘Allen’ Ervin……December, 1989)