Epiphany

On we marched beneath the firmament,
Eyes alight, entranced by such a star!
Bright and new, in darkness clear, that herald
Ancient, kingsman, prophet, glorious news!

Till we saw that humble home, abode of
Peasant, shepherd, or artisan?
So we stared, exchanged a troubled look, then
Hastened to the door.

There we found him, in babe’s attire and
Simple dwelling, unhonored, unloved,
Lacking pomp and comfort, fest or feast,
Save a mother’s milk, and gentle touch.

Stop! Who is that maid, so unassuming,
Poor and young, but eyes illumine all she
Sets her gaze upon—Me? Those eyes
Lift in wonder, awed, yet unafraid.

Eyes that hold some light of heaven, gaze at
All in love, and holy fear, and justice,
God’s own blessing to bestow, so like that
Star, which guides men wandering in darkest night.

Dawn then seemed to fill the room;
Light, to spring up from the earth,
For that babe let out a cry, and
Justice down from heaven looked.

Then we saw, our faces radiant,
Hearts athrill, rejoicing!
Finding journey’s end at last, and
Humble gifts bestowing.

On our knees we fell, heaven’s
Glory, Sun of Justice, beholding!
And beneath that blessed Star, the
Son of God, adoring!

Mercy and truth are met together;
righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
Truth shall spring out of the earth;
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
~Psalm 85:10-11

Then you shall see and be radiant,
your heart shall thrill and rejoice;
because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,
the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
~Isaiah 60:5