THE INN KEEPER

The Keeper missed it all!
It was a busy time, you know
With weary travelers needing rest
The Inn was full, he did his best!

The knock seemed out of place!
“No vacancy” was clear to all
There was no room left anywhere
For Nazareth folk for him to share.

A noise was heard next door!
The lowing sheep and cattle stall
Was found to be the only place
For God's dear Son to find a space.

The Virgin soon gave birth
Upon a dirty stable floor
The Baby's cry was heard that night
While angels bathed the earth in light.

The Keeper missed it all!
The promised King had come to earth!
Had he but known, would he have shared
Some little space? Would he have cared?

Yet Christmas comes again
And yuletide music fills the air
Stop long enough to hear His voice
He knocks and waits! Make Him your choice.
B. Pent

THE CARPENTER

Disappointment and tears could be seen in his face
As he wrestled alone in despair and disgrace
The news Mary shared was too hard to believe
The child, she said, was divinely conceived.                                                     
The Torah made clear the demand she could face    
With a verdict of guilt her demise would take place
But love for his bride turned from justice to grace 
So a quiet divorce was the choice put in place.

His burden weighed heavy far into the night
When suddenly an angel appeared within sight
"Fear not to take Mary, the Child she holds
Is placed there by God as the prophet's foretold."

So Joseph took Mary and made her his wife
Who later birthed Jesus God's free Gift of Life
His death on the cross made atonement for sin        
And all who receive Him find Peace deep within.
B. Pent