A B4 Christmas Story

'Twas weeks before Christmas, and all through the church,
The foyer and halls were prepared with mirth.
Handcrafted pictures and homemade things,
And of course, an entryway fit for a King.


But there's more to the story - much more to glean,
From the staff and the helpers, behind the scenes.
I went looking for Christmas, to know all is well,
In unseen places, where staff folks dwell.

Anticipating cheer, and what might be in store,
I grabbed my camera and flew out the door.
From office to office and hall to hall
The spirit of Christmas is capturing all.


For Greg a nativity, from desert Southwest.
Keith thinks Christmas cards are always the best.
For Peggie a tree on a cabinet of files.
For Tracy poinsettias and laughter and smiles.


Harry was merry, he's praying for snow.
None said, "bah humbug" or asked me to go.
Red and green candy in dishes and bowls.
Somebody's fruitcake, sinfully old.

The youth pastors' decor is bleak, but there's more.
They all dressed as Santa, their photos on doors.
(Paul said he'd send one, so blog readers won't miss...
But it never arrived, so I'm not on Santa's list!)

At Children's Ministry I found Adrienne and Mary,
A wreath all lit up and a gift to carry.
Becky was working on missions and plans
When she got a delivery of gingerbread men.



Randy is all Michigan, his tree maize and blue.
But Gayle's tree is suspiciously of a different hue.
It's mostly scarlet, and a little bit gray.
And I found a buckeye tucked somewhat out of the way.

Doors decked with cards, desks lit with lights,
Shelf-top villages and stockings hung right.
From office to office and hall to hall,
There's even Kay's car that shout's joy out to all.






We love this season, the Gift and the Giver.
"Come all who are thirsty and drink from the River."
God dwelt among us, in a manger at birth
So we celebrate Christmas for all it is worth!


Merry Christmas from all of us!

(written by Pastor Mark Nicklas on assigment for pastor Randy)