Now Mary walked that dusty road,
the way to Bethlehem;
the days and nights were, oh, so long,
the cold surrounded them;
but, with each step, she knew the day
was coming when they both would say,
“Jesus, our child is born, Jesus is born;
in excelsis gloria!”
Our Joseph, he kept careful watch,
yes, strength was in his arm;
as hour by hour, he walked with her,
made sure nothing would harm
his wife-to-be, the child-within,
this father’s love would soon begin –
“Jesus, our child is born, Jesus is born;
in excelsis gloria!”
You people here, now gathered round,
disciples of the Son,
open your hearts, your homes, your hands,
to families like this one;
seeking a place that’s safe to live,
God’s healing love is yours to give,
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born,
in excelsis gloria!
(Tune: "Une Jeune Pucelle" Meter: 8.6.8.6.8.8 with refrain. This tune is most well known with the text, "'Twas in the moon of wintertime," written by Father Jean de Brébeuf.)
—By the Right Rev. Richard Bott. Originally posted on Facebook. Moderator Bott encourages the sharing of prayers he posts throughout his term.