When shall I tell you?

Baby

My Son, so content in my arms tonight

How I wish I could hold you forever, my Light!

When shall I tell you who gave you your Name,

That you and the Father are one and the same?

When should I tell you of the angel’s words,

Of the night when seraph wings fluttered and stirred?

When shall I tell you that the stars above Earth

Danced in the heavens to herald your birth?

When should I tell you that you are a King,

That even the Magi prepared gifts to bring?

Should I mention the things I ponder in heart,

The prophecies spoken that set you apart?

When shall I tell you that you’ll just stay awhile,

Because the world outside needs to reconcile…

How I wish you could stay here safe in my arms!

Not face rejection, temptation and harm,

How I wish you could stay here surrounded by love,

But I know that your calling has come from above.

How I wish you could grow to be head of a home,

But I know there’s a Kingdom you have to make known,

How I wish I could keep your small hand in mine,

Far from crude nails and cruel bindings of twine,

I know that the world needs to feel your touch,

That these hands that I’m holding will accomplish so much!

How I wish you could stay with your beautiful smile,

But I know you were lent to me just for a while,

I’m so proud of you and who you’ll become,

Not just my own, but the Father’s own Son.

Anne Herridge