Just a baby in a manger
Holy, precious heavenly child
Born in humble, poor surroundings.
First born Son so meek and mild.
Nearby shepherds hear the story
Told by angels, joyous news.
Born to you this day a Savior,
Resting now with cows and ewes.
Swaddling clothes, a sign of glory.
Angels sing, their voices raise.
Shepherds seek in haste to find Him,
Share the news and give God praise.
Mary ponders all their sayings,
Weighing thoughts within her heart.
Joseph’s quiet strength beside her,
Silent presence from the start.
Came the time for dedication.
Jesus was the baby’s name.
To Jerusalem they brought Him,
He, who’d later suffer shame.
Now there was a man named Simeon,
Righteous and devout was he,
Looking for the hope of Israel,
Promised death he would not see
‘Til the Christ, the Lord’s Anointed
Had been held within his arms.
And when Simeon held the baby,
At the moment safe from harm,
He revealed the Child’s appointed
Destiny—a Light to bring
Glory to God’s people Israel,
Salvation through a promised King.
Though an earthly King they looked for,
God had planned another way.
“And a sword will pierce your own soul,”
Mary heard old Simeon say.
And a prophetess named Anna
At the temple day and night
Offered thanks to God for Jesus,
Israel’s redemption now in sight.
Little baby, news so joyous.
The Messiah, promised King
In a manger, His life started
Born to reign, the angels sing.
But a coming shadow lingers
Prophets of His future told.
Destined death to save His people
To return them to the fold.
As we linger at the manger
Celebrating Jesus’ birth
Let us not forget the shadow
Of the cross—this baby’s worth.
Not to weep or moan in sadness
But to multiply our joy.
Saved by grace because He suffered—
Holy, precious baby boy.