Unwrapped Gifts

Ode to the Gift That Comes Unwrapped

When the eyes of my heart are opened to see

To see further than the beautifully wrapped gifts under the tree

To listen with the higher reaches of the mind

I begin to see amazing gifts of a far different kind.

Gifts of time and special thoughts may lift me to a higher realm

To see with purer purpose through distractions that overwhelm.

Perhaps a gift is received of which the giver is unaware

Often the Lord has further purpose for a small gift chosen with care.

Such gifts may plant a seed of inspiration to write a new song

And to thrive through unity that to the soul is a balm.

A word of encouragement may lift one to reach a lofty aim

To fulfill an eternal desire, God’s promise to claim

A joy filled greeting flowing from a loving friend

Is such a gift woven into the tapestry of life without end

It may instill confirmation that God’s work in me is true

Validating His love with glorious sounds and colors of every hue

It may be an awakening to ever brighter hope through an apt word

Shepherding with extra contentment through what is heard

Such a gift, coming unwrapped, may surprise both giftor and giftee

Coming in providence, not placed under the tree

That it comes with such startling innocence causes the soul to sing

With unbridled joy as a soaring nightingale singing at taking wing

When given ears to hear the melody of the true giftor above

We are blessed beyond blessing, born of divine love.

Christmas Eve Morning 2011

Ina May Pummill

Christmas Inspiration

The Trumpet Call of Hope

Trumpets pierce the stillness of the night

Listen! Anticipate the glorious light

A trumpet stirs the soul. It excites the heart

It transcends worldly noise with news to impart.

The Word of God is filled with both warning and grace

It confirms the wonder beyond boundaries of this place.

A trumpet sounds with triumph to signal life that is real

It is a call to lift the eyes heavenward as bells of truth peal

It sounds with joy that cannot be contained

It overflows with salvation’s joy abundantly sustained.

You who are suffering along this pathway today

Trust in Jesus our Lord, eternal Son of God, when you pray

Those who hear trumpets resounding as music sweet and bold

Rejoice in God’s promises His prophets long ago foretold

Be comforted by the Lord’s compassion from old

Angels sang over Jesus” birth; He is Shepherd of the fold.

With renewed strength you will soar to heights joy

As on wings of eagles you are lifted to glimpses of glory.

These wings enfold you enabling strength to stand

They encourage believers to persevere just as God planned.

In this glorious Christmas season of celebration and light

Pause to listen for the Spirit Who ministers in the night.

Give from rich gifts received through the gospel of grace

Echo assurance to others from this set apart place.

Behold God’s mighty power revealed in all He has made

His marvelous deeds lift us to splendor that shall never fade.

Wings as of eagles formed in clouds of great height

An expanse of light appeared as a dove before my sight.

Sing a new song to the Messiah, Jesus, Everlasting King

Voice praise in adoration as overflowing joy takes wing

We shall never be disappointed when we pursue God’s grace

Mercy flourishes with abundance when we seek Jesus’ face

May blessings abound each morning that is new,

Carry His joy with you and respond with what is true. 

Imp/11-2011



It was thrilling to discover this image of clouds as eagle's wings spread across the heavens and an image of light shaped as a dove being carried along with the previaling winds.