The year begins with thoughts of royalty;

initiation into regal ranks

of every human being, (give heartfelt thanks!)

the One to come will earn your loyalty!

Though manger-born, ‘mid barn-yard animals;

(no part of boisterous humanity

more quietness than late-night revelry

his birth-song - thus say the ancient annals) -

the Babe has come to bring the reign of God.

From this small start a royal road proceeds;

to eternal life God’s wounded Lamb will lead,

the poor and maimed shall have God’s staff and rod.

Prepare! Make straight the royal Child’s way!

God’s love will not be thwarted; will hold sway.