Tuesday, December 4, 2018

It's Time to Set Up the Nativity...

Maude's hand-painted ceramic Nativity
made in 1965

SETTING UP THE MANGER SCENE

A few snowflakes drift in wintry air
as I carry the carton down the stairs
and unwrap the antique fragile things—
a manger, some camels and three kings.

I set them on the polished tabletop,
being careful not to chip or drop
them as I do. Sheep and shepherd men
are arranged as entering Bethlehem.

An angel, gilded, with one chipped wing
is affixed above; her place to sing.
There’s a cow and donkey, nibbling straw,
Joseph, kneeling, with a look of awe

and Mary, new at being mother
gazing adoringly at none other
than her swaddled, holy, infant Son…
Jesus, Our Savior, on day one.

As I move each figure, to its place,
I call upon God’s loving grace…
pray each who stand before my manger,
to Jesus, will never be a stranger.

May this heirloom crèche, made long ago
recall the event that sets hearts aglow.
May He be for them, as He’s been for me—

Sweet Love …for now
and through eternity.

Maude Carolan Pych


We’ve Been Invited Back
to read holiday poetry at

The Ant Bookstore & Café
Saturday, December 15, at 7 p.m.


Sr. Jane Abeln, SMIC
Pastor EJ Emerson
Maude Carolan Pych
Barbara Williams-Hubbard

COME JOIN US
for a festive evening
of poetry, music & homemade Christmas cookies!

Admission is free



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