From 1 John 4:15-16:  “God abides in those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God, and they abide in God.  So we have known and believe the love that God has for us.  God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them.”

Earth filled with darkness

Hate crosses another street

Enemy’s hand at work

Peace surrenders its fleet

World aching for change

Grace knocking on every door

Chains of evil loosen

Love coming ashore

God holds righteous reins

Providence surges ahead

Muscles ready to flex

Born in Bethlehem shed

Hope now awakens

Messiah’s light enters in

Choice now offered to all

Love strengthens faith’s linchpin

Darkness and hate flee

Forgiven, choosing God’s love

Mercy stirs with kindness

Witnessed from high above

From 1 John 4:21:  “The commandment we have from Him is this:  those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.”