{ The Cradle and the Cross }

 The following poem was written by a lady who along with her daughter and son lost their home in the fires that consumed Gatlinburg on November 28th.  Please click here to read their story and look at the photography by Christine Rich.  Here is just a little bit of what she had to say about the images and the Martin's story.....

The images used in this post are of  my dear friend Debbie sitting beside the fireplace and what is left of her family home of 40+ years on what has been affectionately named “Miracle Mountain” in Gatlinburg, TN.  Debbie, along with her 91 year old Mama, Ruth, and brother Mark Martin lost everything in the fires.  In a time when many would feel a great sense of hopelessness, this family is a beautiful example of HOPE in Jesus.  As I captured these images which I believe say much more than I can express into words, Debbie began to read such wonderful, comforting words from the old careworn bible.   When you’ve lost everything, but you have Jesus…you indeed have everything you need.  Thank you, Debbie, Ruth and Mark for letting me photograph your property and tell about your beautiful faith and hope in the Lord.   I hope the images and words will bring hope to others in Sevier County.

 The Cradle and the Cross

The greatest gain the world has known

Was Heaven’s greatest loss;

Her King was gone! 

His mission was

To die upon a cross.

To Earth He came, 

a Babe to be.

No pillow knew His head;

No royal cradle did He choose-

A manger was His bed.

No royal court to welcome Him,

Just Mary’s lullaby,

And humble shepherds from the hills-

(But angels sang on high!)

The heart of Mary pondered o’er

The measure of the cost,

As o’er the sleeping Infant fell

The shadow of a cross.

He’d be a man ‘fore she’d recall

The aged prophet’s word,

But when He hung on Calvary

Her heart would feel the sword.

She could not know that holy night

When star-fire lit the sky,

Her tiny Babe-the Son of God-

Was only born to die. 

By Ruth R. Martin

As we're celebrating the birth of Jesus tomorrow.....

 in the midst of way too much to eat and gifts and decorations and celebration.....

 may we take time to remember those less fortunate than us and may we say a special prayer for those who don't know Jesus as their personal Lord and  Savior.

Merry, Merry CHRISTmas, Friends!