It is night
sunset came some hours ago
doors closed to keep out the dark
fires were lit
the last of the preparations were made
to protect the world from the darkness
it is night
but not all are at home
they keep watch on those they are entrusted with
keeping them safe from that which would cause them harm
darkness is a dread, what does it bring?
But danger lurking in the shadows
it is night
and a homeless couple are far from home, removed from those they love
they seek shelter from the darkness
the darkness of the world
where there is no room for them
no room for them
nor the child she carries
it is night
and the watchers of sheep
are met with heavenly light
it hurts their eyes
the song, the glorious angels’ song, fills their ears
their hearts are filled with joy and wonder
in the darkness the seek the light of the world
it is night
and we keep watch
in the darkness
in the fear
in the hurt
in the pain
we watch and wait
as others have before us
as others will after us
for the light of the world in our midst
for Christ Jesus
to come into this darkness
of this night