Josephine's birthday

It was the day she was born, today.
A very special day and yet it seemed that
There was no reason to celebrate
No food in the house much less
A birthday cake.
Then they stopped by to say hello,
To sing a few Christmas carols
Which they sang enthusiastically
Quite lovely really; so what?
But then a kindly face, marked by poverty,
Smiled and asked if there was perhaps
A prayer intention or two
That the group might pray, for her and with her
In sincere solidarity.

The candle lit became the light of Christ
Bringing the warmth of His love and compassion
Into an otherwise dreary day.
He loves and cares for her. He must!
Why else would He send strangers
To sing a birthday song and wish her well
On this day that she was born.

Happy birthday Josephine!
He sent us to say He loves you
You are the very reason He was born into this world
To suffer and die so painfully.
You alone are the reason why Christmas exists.
We pray this message of love remains
Long after the food in the hamper is consumed.