'Twas the Night Before Jesus Came

We've all heard the old, well known Christmas poem, right? "'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there." 

Well, I am blessed to know three 'versions' of this popular poem. The other two being, "Cajun Night Before Christmas" and "'Twas the Night Before Jesus Came". I'm going to share the latter with you all today. :D 

As I was thinking of different things to post on during 12 Days of Christmas, my mom mentioned that she had a few things I may want to use. This was one of them. I know I've read it or heard it read in years past, but I'd forgotten about it. Re-reading it and typing it up to share with y'all, the message of the poem really spoke to me. I found it to be very special and thought-provoking. 

'Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house 

Not a creature was praying, not one in the house. 

Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care

In hopes that Jesus would not come there. 

The children were dressing to crawl into bed, 

Not once ever kneeling or bowing their head. 

And mom in her rocker with baby on her lap 

Was watching the late show while I took a nap. 

When out of the East there arose such a clatter, 

I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter. 

Away to the window I flew like a flash 

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash! 

When what to my wondering eyes should appear

But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here. 

With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray

I knew in a moment this must be "The Day" ! 

The Light of His face made me cover my head

It was Jesus! Returning just like He had said. 

And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth, 

I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself. 

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand

Was written the name of every saved man. 

He spoke not a word as He searched for my name; 

When He said, "It's not here", my head hung in shame. 

The people whose names had been written with love

He gathered to take to His Father above. 

With those who were ready He rose without a sound 

While all the rest were left standing around. 

I fell to my knees, but it was too late; 

I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate. 

I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight; 

Oh, if only I had been ready tonight. 

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear; 

The coming of Jesus is drawing near. 

There's only one life and when comes the last call 

We'll find that the Bible was true AFTER ALL! 

Note: I did not write this poem and I have no claim on it. If I knew the author's name I would give them the credit. :)

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What do you think? 

Did you enjoy it?

Had you heard it before? 

"Christmas Tidings" ~ Day Three

Today's 12 Days of Christmas links!! :) 

~ Visit RebekahAshleigh's blog for a recipe for Christmas candy! 

~ Visit Lauren's Amazing World for the story behind on of the best-loved songs of Christmas! 

~ Visit Whimsical Writings for a Christmas book review! 

~ Visit Simply Stories for a Christmas story! 

Merry Christmas everyone! I'm off to town now! :)

~Faith