'Twas the Day Before Advent

'Twas the day before Advent
and all through the land,
the shopping and football
got quite out of hand.

Thanksgiving behind us,
the New Year to come.
With Christmas now looming
too much to be done.

Unpacking the lights
and trimming the tree
are the next things to do:
Top priority.

When all of a sudden
we realize it's missing --
the anticipation
of our reason for giving.

The twinkle and sparkle,
the commerce and trade
cannot hold a candle
to the gift that God gave.

We've traded our joy
and all of our wonder
for a few simple hours
of Black Friday plunder.

But what if our
wandering eyes paused to see
the promise of Hope
in our blind reverie?

With breathless excitement
and curious searching,
we discovered a Peace
that's worth our unearthing?

Among infighting, prejudice,
warring and pain,
this beckoning Advent
gives our deep need a name:

It's Jesus. He came,
and His coming again
has been promised to us --
this great love without end.

Yes the angels declared,
though now gone from our sight,
"Your salvation has come
on the most Holy Night."

So instead of our planning,
our busyness doing,
let's be still and wait
for the glory that's brewing.

Yes! The once infant Savior
who became all-time King,
He is coming again
and His praises we'll sing.

First He came sent from Heav'n
in a woman-child's womb.
Second Advent is nearing:
how will we make Him room?

Empty hearts, minds and hands.
Give Him space all around,
so we'll truly receive
this Great Love that's come down.

Yes, it's time to start watching
like a young child, wide-eyed,
and experience Advent,
with its mystery abide.

on Advent Eve
for those looking for Hope
Joy L. Sherman
11-26-16
#DoYouSeeWhatISee