The Christmas Story

The Christmas Story A decree was sent throughout the land; All must return to their town of origin For the count, to pay taxes to Caesar of Rome. Besmirch by others, shunned by kin; Mary and Joseph sojourn to Bethlehem, Judea With the angel of the Lord watching over them. And Mary, being in the throes of childbirth, Had Joseph deliver ‘Immanuel’ into the world. 1 In the firmament, a host of angels sang; And a messenger in the Glory of God that shone, Appeared to shepherds with the good news, Who left their flocks to seek out the miracle. They found the lissome mother in repose, Nursing the baby in the inn’s stable. Finished, Mary lay the Savior in a manger. And the shepherds rejoiced and praised God; For His favour in keeping His ‘Messiah’ promise. Words Mary treasured and pondered in her heart. And a celestial body shining brighter than most, Was seen by wise men in foreign lands; Who set off on a journey to worship the Lord, With gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. For it was written: ‘From you, Bethlehem, Judea, Shall come a Ruler, to shepherd my people Israel.’ 2 Somewhere in the night, a fallen angel lurked, With pinion wings clipped to walk the earth; Instilled evil in the heart of King Herod to kill Jesus. But the angel of the Lord warned Joseph in a dream, To flee with Mary and the baby to Egypt! After Herod’s death, the family returned to Galilee. *** References: Matthew 1:18-2:23 and Luke 2:1-20 1) Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6 2) Micah 5:2