The Star and the Manger

By Abbie R. Madsen

Oh! Stars, do you still remember
How the shepherds watched through the night,
When among you there shone one bright star,
They say ’twas a glorious sight.

Oh! Bethlehem, do you remember
The dear, precious gift that was laid
In the manger down among your lowly,
When the angels sang, “Be not afraid”?

O! Judah, do you now remember
’The promises long made to you?
To Jerusalem are you returning
To make all the prophecies true?

Scattered Israel, in Gentile nations,
Do you watch this return unafraid
Of the judgments now poured out upon you,
What protection around you is laid?

O! Star in the manger, your shadow
Lies deep on the earth’s troubled breast,
While the angels keep watch on this Christmas
That Zion and Judah may rest.

(1922)