I don’t know if you have a Christmas Tree tradition or not…

Some in the Christian community have tried to shame the treasured ritual. The pressure they exert can be overwhelming at times.

While they’re denying good little boys and girls everywhere of this joyous event (and denying the existence of the Easter bunny), I can’t help but wonder, “why do these folks always come to these holy conclusions after their kids have grown and left the house?”

I have to laugh just a little as we watch the classic animated, “Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town”… especially the part where the winter warlock talks about working his “magic” shortly after the narrator explains why Santa is only going to deliver toys once a year during the holiest night of the year.

I’ll admit, that makes me a tad uncomfortable, but I never thought twice about it as a child.

There’s a DuraFlame log flickering in the fireplace while the scent of fresh baked cookies wafts through the house… I do love this time of year!

We wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas.
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Note: This poem was found in my Grandmother’s collection of sermon notes. I know that she knew the Hembree family. However, I do not know if this poem was written in memory of my Grandfather or another minister friend. If you know, please contact me. Thank you.

A man of God has walked among us
a husband beloved,
Strong in spirit and soul
A father to a son,
Whose life, he has helped to mould
Missed, yes indeed
Voice stilled, true
Godly influence, remains, to help sustain
all because,
A man of God has walked among us.

A man of God has walked among us
A shepherd, faithful to his call,
Helping the feeble and strong,
Comforting one and all
Missed, yes indeed
Voice stilled, true
His influence remains,
To help sustain,
All because,
A man of God has walked among us.

A man of God has walked among us
A colleague, loyal, faithful, a friend the best,
Now departed from us,
Gone to his eternal rest,
Missed, yes indeed
Voice stilled, true
His short stay among us seems to say,
Take courage my friends,
Heaven is at the end of the way
This is because
A man of God has walked among us.

- C.F. Hembree