At Winebrenner Theological Seminary, our faculty and staff are not only devoted to teaching in the classroom but are also actively involved in serving in ministry and professional settings. Dr. Mary Iiames, the Program Director for the Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling, recently worked with youth in her church to lead a special Advent service. One of the youth co-authored this poem with her, which we are sharing as an example of collaboration.
‘Twas the years before Jesus, And all through the land, people were arguing, worrying, and sad. God said to Jesus, “Please go to the earth;” I’m sending you now, as a miracle birth.” Mary and Joseph travelled to a manger afar, And Jesus was born, announced with a star.” Jesus taught people to love one another; He died on a cross; our sins He did cover. Then He rose from the grave, and to us He did promise, He would return, ‘til then His Spirit would help us. As people did wait for Jesus to come, They slowly forgot, and their hearts became numb. They lost all their hope, when times became bad; People did suffer, get sick, and were sad. But the Spirit was working and calling to all, “Jesus still helps you with trials, big and small!” When what to our wondering eyes did appear, But a glimmer of Hope to all she did cheer! When Hope came to people, the devil was mad! “I’ll stop you dear Hope and destroy your Dad! More rapid than eagles, the devil sent wars, Fighting and cursing and dying and sores. God said, “Now Joy and Love, Peace and Hope,” “I’ve given my Word to help you all cope!” So, to one and all at Advent we say, “Remember that Jesus told us to pray!” Jesus still sits on the throne up above, And daily reminds us of God and His love. When all seems lost, and nothing is right, Just remember that you are still in God’s sight. He sees your struggles and knows your cares; His Spirit is with you; His burdens He shares. God’s Spirit reminds us, “He’s coming again!” “To save us from hurting; Ours wounds He still mends!” Hope jumped with glee as she heard the Good News; “People aren’t stuck; Another way they can choose!” So Hope came to all and did her good work; She kept spreading her Hope and never did shirk. Then laying her finger aside of her nose, And giving a nod, Love and Joy then arose! She sprang through the world and to her team gave a whistle, Peace, Joy, and Love flew like the down of a thistle. At Advent, let’s exclaim through the land, “Jesus is coming! Don’t lose Hope now, be glad!” Written by Mary Iimes & Sara Wager (Z-Alpha Generation Youth Group, Cairo UMC)
