My adaptation of the famous poem, by Clement Clarke Moore
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the net,
Were the ‘tip-tap’ of keys from people in debt.
The Bible was placed on the mantle with care,
Knowing full well that Christ would be there.
The town was abustle the cars to and fro,
With last-minute shoppers on the sidewalk below.
Dad with his iPhone and me with iPad,
Were making a list of the blessings we had.
When from the next room there arose such a splatter,
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
Over some Lego and through a clothes pile,
I arrived at the crib where I witnessed a smile.
The light from the moon cast a glow on the bed,
Where tossled curls encircled his head.
His diaper was full but he didn’t mind,
Mommy was there to change his behind.
More rapid than eagles I scooped up the child,
Tickled his tummy while he giggled and smiled.
Out for the night I laid him back down,
Slipped back to my room barely making a sound.
I looked over at Dad my heart full of joy,
Love is greater than a shiny new toy.
His eyes how they twinkle, his smile how warm,
His arms strong and ready to shield me from harm.
God in His wisdom gave woman to man,
A Christ-Centered marriage, all part of the plan.
This Christmas I’m wise not to forget,
That love is the greatest gift one can get.
Click here to download the printable.
You are loved by an almighty God,
Darlene Schacht, The Time-Warp Wife
Love it, Darlene! I enjoy writing poetry, too. I wanted to thank you for putting the link to your WLW conference talk on your freebies page. I was busy the Thursday night that one went live on Pinterest and was so disappointed to miss it. Found it on your website last week, listened, and was immensely blessed by your words of wisdom, per usual. Thanks for all you do. Best wishes to you and all your precious family for a merry and meaningful Christmas!
Twas the night before Jesus Came
Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.
Their bibles were lain on a shelf without care
In hopes that Jesus would not come there.
The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And Mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.
When out of the East there arose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY!
The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! Returning just like He had said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw him in spite of myself.
In the Book of Life which He held in His hand.
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said “It’s not here” my head hung in shame.
The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound
While all the rest were left standing around.
I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.
In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
We’ll find that the Bible was true after all!
By Bethany Farms 1985 Her notation is Revelation 19:11-16, mine is Hebrews 12:25.
Actually, Shauna, this is a Christmas card that I bought long before Bethany Farms in 1985. The words are identical, and the Author is Unknown. I purchased it from an online religious bookstore. Not to take anything from it, because I think it is one of the most poignant things I’ve read. We rotate them with other Christmas cards, and this year we sent this one again. I love it! <3