The Crime Of Christmas

(I've posted this one before - last Christmas - but wanted to share it again.)



"Merry Christmas!" I called out
To shoppers passing by
They stopped and stared in disbelief
With pity in their eyes.
I didn't understand it
But I continued on my way
With a joyful heart I began to sing
"Jesus Is Born Today"!
People started pointing fingers
They looked at me with shame
They said "You fool! Don't you know
You're not allowed to speak His name!"
I cried "No! You are mistaken!
No one can take away
The right to celebrate His birth
On this Holy Christmas day!"
An angry mob surrounded me
Crying out, in one accord
Cursing, mocking, daring me
To denounce my Lord.
Fear and sorrow filled my heart
As the police led me away
They said Christmas was a crime
And that I'd have to pay.
They threw me in a cold, dark cell
And I fell down on the floor
Praying "Jesus, please be with me
Like You always have before."
Later, something woke me
The sweetest sound on earth
It was a choir singing
About our Blessed Savior's birth
I sat up and looked around
I was safe, in my own bed
It had only been a dream
With thanks, I bowed my head.
As the music filled the air
I got down on my knees
I praised God for the freedom
To celebrate as I please.
"Merry Christmas!" I call out
Unafraid and unashamed
This is the birthday of our King
Rejoice! And praise His name!

~ Marci Jo Ferguson ~
11 - 27 - 2007