December 6, 2006

Christmas in Heaven

Family is a very important part of Christmas. Almost everyone, if they are able, makes an attempt to be with family at this time of the year. Even with all the challenges of getting along with relatives over an extended period of time, it is where most folks want to be. For those families who have experienced the loss of a family member during the past year, Christmas can be a sad time. My wife and I both lost our mothers this year. Even though my mom had Alzheimer’s disease for the past few Christmases and in my heart I know that she is better off, it does not lessen the sadness that I feel at her absence.

A few days ago I drove down to see my dad. I was glad that he has decorated the house this year and that he is hosting a Christmas party for his Sunday School class. It is in part a tribute to my mother who loved to entertain and hosted the Sunday School Christmas dinner for probably forty years. She was a great hostess, cook, and decorator. It was an event that was a highlight of the year. Being in the presence of so much that reminded me of her brought back a flood of memories.

As I drove home I was surfing the channels on the radio to find some Christmas music and I heard this poem. It reminded me of my mom and so here it is for anyone who may be without a loved one for the first time at Christmas.

I’M SPENDING CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN
with JESUS CHRIST THIS YEAR

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below,
With their tiny lights, like heaven’s stars, reflecting on the snow.
To me the view is so spectacular, so please wipe away that tear,
For I’m in heaven spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,
But the music down there just can’t compare
with the Christmas Choir up here.
I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring.
For it is beyond description, to hear the angels sing.
I know how much you miss me; I see the pain inside your heart.
and I know there is sorrow in separation just because we are apart,
But be joyful and be merry and try to hold back the tears.
For I’m now in heaven spending Christmas
with Jesus Christ this year.

I can’t tell you of the splendor or the peace here in this place.
But can you just imagine Christmas, with our Savior, face to face?
I’ll ask Him to light your spirit, as I tell Him of your love.
So then pray one for another as you lift your eyes above.
Please let your hearts be joyful, and let your spirits sing,
For I’m spending Christmas in heaven this year,
and I’m walking with the King!

Adapted by Dave Kersey from a poem by an unknown author
Furnished by Family Life Communications, Inc.