Poem December 25, 1976 Issue

AT BETHLEHEM

Cosette E. Barkhurst

A Messiah was expected—
yes!
Promised in prophecy
deeply yearned for
yet how few
were spiritually prepared
for the event!

The star that lit his coming
should have dazzled
a heavens-scanning people
seeking signs and portents.
Only a handful read its meaning
followed its leading
cherished the babe in humble setting
saw the majesty, paid royal homage
and departed, lips sealed
to shield ineffable grace and glory.

Were even these perceptive ones
prepared for the vibrant Word
made flesh, for a living man
who would call himself
the light of the world—
whose healing works and tender might
would reveal the presence of God's love—
His precious total uncondemning love
for man?

Cosette E. Barkhurst

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