The sermon today was special, given by the student ministry leader for the college student ministry at my church. It was his first full congregational sermon andhe did very well. This is the poem inspired by his sermon.

“Home for the Holidays”
By Jennifer Kane

So much time has passed
Since I last saw your faces.
Not much has changed around here,
But that’s what brings me home to you—
Home for the holidays.

It’s so good to be here.
As we gaze at the tree,
Its quiet beauty reminds us of the true reason:
That He came to earth in the form of a man—
A gift that lasts beyond the seasons.
Jesus has come to bring us home.

Oh, it’s so good to be here,
With those I hold dear.

Home for the holidays.
Yet, let’s not forget those around us.
Let us not feast like the rich man in Luke 16,
Who ignored the need at his gate.
Both found a resting place,
But oh, the difference it makes
When we live with generosity.

Despite our blessings and comforts,
We are called to give freely.
Don’t be troubled—
For home is more than this earthly place.
Home is with our Father in heaven.
Jesus is our way to the Father,
And the Holy Spirit dwells within us,
Guiding us home.

We are made in God’s image—
So rejoice!
Let us keep our home, this temple, clean.
In the ease of holiday rest,
It’s tempting to let unclean habits grow.
Stay alert! Confess, cleanse,
And don’t let the mess pile up in your life.
Run, resist, and fight the devil—
And he will flee.

For our true home isn’t just here on earth.
Through Christ, we have a home
For the holidays,
And forever always.

December 15 2025