A GIFT NOT RECEIVED

To be close to heaven, but not see.
To see an angle, but not believe.
To hear a message proclaimed but not hear.
To walk with Jesus, but stay clear.
To sing the Christmas carols but never know.
To believe the message but still say no.
How sad is this to know.
That many are close but still for go.
That many have the chance to share,
But shame says we shouldn’t dare.
For eternity to be so close,
But many treat it like a hoax.
To celebrate a holiday you don’t believe.
Is to never open a gift you received.
To love someone but keep them hidden. 
Is the gift that was never given. 
This is the gift not received.
Rejected and disbelieved.
Because how some wrap the present,
Leave a taste less than pleasant.
Causing judgment on the giver.
Focused on how the package was delivered.
Instead of giving a gift a glance.
Is to be so close to a second chance.
But deny a loving offer,
And to accept your own slaughter.
This is something to be grieved.
Is the perfect gift not received. 

R.D. Jess