December 11th

Scripture: 1 Nephi 10:4 - "Yea, even six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem, a prophet would the Lord God raise up among the Jews -- even a Messiah, or, in other words, a Savior of the world."

Song: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"

Story: "The Stranger" - Author Unknown

At Christmas time there was a man,

who looked so out of place.

As people rushed about him,

at a hurried sort of pace.

He stared at all the Christmas lights,

the tinsel everywhere.

The shopping center Santa Claus,

with children gathered near.

The mall was packed with shoppers,

who were going to and fro.

Some with smiles, some with frowns,

and some too tired to go.

They rested on benches,

or they hurried on their way.

To fight the crowds for purchases,

to carry home that day.

The music from the stereo,

was playing loud and clear.

Of Santa Claus and snowmen,

and funny nosed reindeer.

He heard the people talk about,

the good times on the way.

Of parties, fun and food galore,

and gift exchange that day.

I'd like to know what's going on,

the man was heard to say.

There seems to be some sort,

of celebration on the way.

And would you tell me who this is,

all dressed in red and white.

And why are children asking "him"

about a special night.

The answer came in disbelief,

I can't believe my ear.

I can't believe you do not know

that Christmas time is here.

The time when Santa comes around,

with gifts for girls and boys.

When they are asleep on Christmas Eve,

he leaves them books and toys.

The man you see in red and white

is Santa Claus so sly.

The children love his joyful laugh,

and twinkle in his eye.

His gift packed sleigh is pulled along

by very small reindeer.

As he flies quickly through the air,

while darting here and there.

The children learn of Santa Claus,

while they are still quite small.

When Christmas comes "he" is the most,

"important" one of all.

The stranger hung His head in shame,

He closed a nail pierced hand.

His body shook in disbelief,

He did not understand.

A shadow crossed His stricken face,

His voice was low but clear.

"After all these years they still don't know."

And JESUS shed a tear.