I used to write out personal notes on all my Christmas cards.
Then I started printing them out, sending each with warm regards.
But now today, even that habit has slowly slipped away,
As I send out e-mails to groups of friends with best wishes for the day.
I used to work for day after day, creating gifts by hand.
Then I started running around with a frenzied shopping plan.
But now today, even that habit has slowly slipped away,
As I search the web, for that perfect gift, it’s easy with “click ‘n pay”.
I used to make the holiday treats, baking them all from scratch.
Then I started using a mix that made a second rate batch.
But now today, even that habit has slowly slipped away,
As I stop by the store and throw in the cart, some festive cookie tray.
I used to go out a-caroling, ‘round the neighborhood streets.
Then I started buying the best and newest Christmas cds.
But now today, even that habit has slowly slipped away,
As I download songs on my mp3 but never have time to play.
I used to read the story of Christ and how He came to earth.
Then I started watching the film that sweetly portrayed His birth.
But now today, even that habit has slowly slipped away,
As I’ve seen it before, it’s nothing new - does it matter anyway?
I used to do this and then do that; I used to do it all.
But now I’ve started down a road, which I really can’t recall.
Mediocrity has taken me, I fear I’ve gone astray.
As I searched for convenience, commitment was the price I had to pay.
How about you? Have you slipped down roads of mediocrity?
In word or deed, in all you do, serve Jesus passionately.
Not just at Christmas but all year long, give compromise no place.
Allow yourself to be poured out - a vessel of His grace.
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be! TRUST JESUS NOW
Read more articles by Mary Lou Tiner or search for articles on the same topic or others.
There are so many good, thought-provoking issues that you raise in this poem. It is funny how we allow ourselves to slip without realizing how far away we are from where we should be. Thanks for sharing.
Lisa
