Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here

Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here
Amid our hills river island glens;
Sleep on at peace in your mother’s arms
Resting safely in faithful Joseph’s care.
Son and grandson brother friend
Laugh along with me play beside my smile;
Toddle walk and run sharing fun and games
In your body’s time one day to ascend.

Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here
Within our land cities towns and homes;
And we believe you have come to earth
To bring peace to all who are far and near.
Grow in strength in goodness train
Learn and pray each day for the call to come;
For your Father’s will is as yet unknown
Though dear Mary’s heart feels the sword of pain.

Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here
In cold bare cells made of brick and steel;
Prisons of soul and the spirit too
Set us free we pray from our deepest fear.
Live and work in strength of youth
By your father’s side skillful hands to use;
Time will come to leave these more peaceful tasks
For the world awaits your redeeming truth.

Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here
This world’s dear poor are your friends in need;
So touch our thought and our money too
Let us share our gifts your command is clear.
Save our souls heal those long ill
Loving well your friends as they follow you;
Going on to die and to rise again
Living in our hopes as we pilgrim still.

Little boy, Son of God, you are welcome here
To share the best of this human life;
And celebrate at our winter feast
Life and soul of each Christmas time of cheer.
Love of Maker incarnate
Tender mind of God for us sublimate;
Loving heart of Saviour inviolate
Brightest light of souls all illuminate.

(c) Robert Alexander Anderson 2011