'Twas the night before Christmas and in Heaven above,
The angels were watching with such intense love!
For the Prize of all Heaven was coming to earth;
and a manger was chosen as His place of birth.

Mary, his mother, so weary and worn,
Was glad Joseph found a place cozy and warm;
And now, as she labored, a new life began
Destined to bring life to each willing man.

And out on the hillsides the angels sang, "Glory!"
Shepherds stood trembling as they heard the story.
Quickly they followed the angels clear way
And found baby Jesus upon the clean hay.

Down from the heavens there came a new light;
A star born anew on that very night!
Softly the mother sang sweet lullabyes
'Til sweet baby Jesus closed His little eyes.

Humbly the shepherds gave worship and praise,
Bowing down softly where God's baby lay.
They told how the angels had spoken to them,
"Joy to the world and peace to all men!"

The wise men were coming; they followed the star.
They were bringing the Savior their gifts from afar;
And up in God's Heaven a great sigh was heard
As the Angels looked down on God's own Living Word.

They had to come closer ~~ they loved Him so much!
Their wings swept by Him for just one more touch,
Then they nestled by legions above His wee bed
And spread out their wings, enclosing the shed.

Yes, trials would follow ~~ a plan was engaged ~~
But just for tonight ... the angels would say,
"Oh, men of earth, who struggle in vain ~~
Seek here and find release from all shame ~~
Peace on the earth! Oh, learn it anew ...
Peace! God has sent His own Son to you!

Joan Clifton Costner
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