Spirit-Child Jesus

Spirit-child Jesus, in joyful refrain,
echoing songs over Bethlehem’s plain,
what will we do when the carols all fade?
“Take up my song: Glory! Be not afraid!”

Spirit-child Jesus, in animal shed,
smiling at shepherds from strange borrowed bed,
what will we do when the manger’s away?
“Take up my story, and live it each day!”

Spirit-child Jesus, in starry white light,
twinkling on evergreens shiny and bright,
what will we do when the branches are shorn?
“Take up my cross that for you I have borne!”

Spirit-child Jesus, in vigilant eyes,
awaiting the gift bearing Love’s great surprise,
what will we do when the presents are done?
“Take up my presence, for I am God’s Son!"

Spirit-child Jesus, in hot tongues of flame,
melting the candle alight in your name,
What will we do when the candle is gone?
“Take up my light! Pass it on, pass it on!”