In this world of trial and woe,
I find myself one half below
The meter of a man I know,
The man that's known to me as Joe.
This man stood hands above the rest,
His countenance withstood the test.
His stature though, was not his height.
He gained his fame without a fight.
His walk through youth wasn't special,
But time came to cross that trestle
Into the future with his bride,
He clasped his lady love with pride.
His heart was dashed against the stones
His voice reduced to only groans.
His Love proclaimed she was “with child”
His anguish nearly drove him wild.
“She must be stoned” - the law declared.
The voices clear, like trumpets blared.
His love and care for her shown thru
He knew his heart and what to do.
She'll go quietly for a while,
When she returns she'll be with child.
His heart and manner grew somewhat mild
The marriage took place in the family style.
The days drew nigh the child's birth.
A summons came forth o'er the earth.
Bitter cold nights and hot sun baking
An unwelcome trip was in the making.
Some of Joe's friends were going too.
They'd stay together - 'cause - this was new.
They distanced many miles each day
Deep in their own thoughts along the way.
They had known Joe through all their life,
Were happy for him as he took a wife.
As he led them on their travel
They saw something new in him unravel.
They witnessed a man who for others cared.
He'd lift burdens, for another beared
Some heavy load without distraint.
His manner was pleasant with no complaint.
At journey's end vacant rooms were naught,
But the birth of the baby surely will not
Take place in public and out in the cold,
Joe took charge - and the story is told.
He pleaded for a place, his wife to give birth
He got the cow shed, a crib o're the earth.
A son was born that night to Us.
The Son was named that night - JESUS.
copyright © July 1986