We Understand

We want to be home for Christmas,
By the tree drinking wassail and eggnog,
Eating candy canes and fruitcake
Laughing with our family.

We want to be children again,
Waiting for Santa Claus
Immersed in magic again.

And there is magic still,
The kind we'll never outgrow,
Because now we understand,
So much more.

We understand the innkeeper,
Because we've been busy,
And overwhelmed before.

I understand Joseph,
Because I am a father,
And have watched the miracle of birth.

Jean understands Mary,
Because she has been great with child,
to be born of covenant and promise.

We understand the shepherds,
Because we have seen miracles,
And we want to run and see.

We understand the angels,
Because we too want to sing:
"Peace on earth, good will to men."

We understand the magi,
As we seek the King,
Carrying a sacred gift.

Tonight, this Christmas Eve,
We understand,
Loved and loving,
Blessed and blessing.

Merry Christmas.