1977 Christmas Poem

If only we had known
Your bed, of finest linens,
Would have been
Instead of leftover hay
From a poor beast's meal

If only we had known
Mayors and magistrates
Would have called that night
With gifts and proclamations
To commemorate your birth

If only we had known
We'd have looked to heaven
And seen the angel choir
And with the shepherds
Joined in at your side

If only we had known
We'd have scrutinized the stars
And found the one
That led to the house
Where you dwelt

If only we had known
We'd have protected you
In your flight
To Pharaoh's land
And hidden you away

If only we had known
We'd have given you our all
And built for you a tabernacle
Rather than a tomb
For your short stay

But we did not know
And we were not there
But perhaps it is not yet
Too late for us
To build you a home in our hearts

- 26 October 1977