A photo of my family’s first Christmas with my brother, John, who was only 10 days old that Christmas morn. John was definitely the best present we all received that year! My mother is holding him, my sister Ruth is on the left and my father is behind the camera. These three children miss their loving parents who have gone home to the Lord…
when Christmas taps a sad place in my heart
stir up the joys of Christmas past
and let me know once more
the peace my memories hold
’til I rejoice again
as I did years ago…
to those no longer with us,
restore my faith in life to come
and let me know once more
’til I rejoice again
as I did years ago…
When Christmas presents fade and break
remind me of the gifts that truly last
and let me know once more
’til I rejoice again
as I did years ago…
when melancholy steals my joy
refresh your Spirit’s grace deep in my heart
and let me know once more
’til I rejoice again
as I did years ago…
and guard me while I sleep
that awake, I might keep watch with you
and asleep, rest in your peace…
I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth
Peace on earth
I thought how as the day had come
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth
Peace on earth
Peace on earth, good will to men
And in despair I bowed my head
“There is no peace on earth,” I said
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth
Peace on earth
“God is not dead, nor doth he sleep
Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth
Peace on earth
Peace on earth, good will to men