by Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2024
First published in Academy of the Heart and Mind as a Decembder 12 Days of the Holidays Contest Winner (December, 23, 2025)
It was sheer joy of shepherds,
that warmed the country night —
after the song of angels,
dispelled them of their fright.
By starlight led to manger,
to baby tucked in hay —
by sheep and livestock pastures,
they humbly made their way;
to gaze upon a baby,
swaddled in peasant clothes —
who wakened to their voices,
as mother Mary rose;
to greet the welcome strangers,
falling on bended knees —
in worship at their Savior,
whose smile put them at ease.
It was a fitting tribute,
to heir of shepherd boy —
who played the harp in starlight,
for heavens to enjoy;
that King in line of David
did lie in Bethlehem —
to lead His flocks to water,
so faith could restore them.