Wondrous Little Stranger

By RaeJean Spencer Hasenoehrl 

That first kick. Sleepless nights.

An ache to hold you in my arms.

Thoughts of you and dreams untold,

My wondrous little stranger.

 

Counting days. Hushing fright.

Striving to be calm and strong.

Wond’ring what our future holds,

My wondrous little stranger.

 

Joseph’s face, creased, concerned,

Belies his calm demeanor,

As we wait for you to come,

My wondrous little stranger.

 

Journey long. Taxes paid.

But where to stay in dark of night?

Cavern meek, but walls secure—

A restful piece of heaven.

 

Strains of pain. Sweat-strewn brow.

I snatch my husband’s hand and pray.

He wipes away what he calls

Sweet dewdrops sent from heaven.

 

First soft touch. Downy hair.

A cry so strong and hungry.

Sleepy-eyed, you yawn. I smile.

My newborn Prince of Heaven.

 

Who would know, sentinels

Would ’round us stand on cloven hooves?

Those thick with wool bay to the child,

“Warm welcome, little stranger.” 

 

Eastern star, magi come

To kneel on straw before you.

Mustached smiles, delighted eyes

Adore this promised stranger.

 

Time will pass, you will grow,

And carry out God’s plan for earth.

But in my heart you’ll always be

My wondrous little stranger.