2009
Director of the Christmas Program
December 2009


“Director of the Christmas Program,” Ensign, Dec. 2009, 68

Director of the Christmas Program

Final rehearsal

and still I ask how,

from present chaos,

can we possibly create

a heavenly choir?

But I pray that we may.

Then, on Sabbath day in answer to desire,

Past sticky smear on best-dress sleeve,

Past crying babe and petulant child

Comes elusive feeling creeping,

Magically distilled and seeping

Into hidden places of my harried heart.

“Glory to God in the highest …”

Like a shawl, wonder warms me

At the wisdom of my choosing

To take part at all.

“Peace on earth,

Goodwill to men …”

Fellowship slips

Into hollow soul-spaces

With mellowness and ease.

“How silently …

the wondrous gift is given …”

Hard to believe, but without

Wrapping, ribbon, or bow, I know

The nebulous gift is received.

“Where meek souls will

receive Him, still …”

Indeed, our herald angels sing

Right now, this holy day!

Indeed, right here

“… in this world of sin …

the dear Christ enters in.”

Illustration by Steve Kropp