CHRISTMAS . . . then and now
Beneath the Star of David’s light
Judean subjects slept the night.
 
          Beyond the fields, among the hills,
          The realm of Bethlehem lay still.
 
                    Behind the inn a stable stood,
                    A palace made of splintered wood.
 
                              Within the crib a king was laid
                              While horses ate and donkeys brayed.
 
 
Beneath the stars of varied watts
Cut pine trees stand in parking lots.
 
          Beyond impatient check-out lines
          Wait war-like toys for youthful minds.
 
                    Behind the tavern bar a lass
                    Sells Christmas spirit by the glass.
 
                              Within our lives a King wants rule,
                              But like the inn, are they too full?