Once In Distant Lands Once in distant lands lay waiting one who heard the messenger's voice. Struggling with the sacred meaning, Mary makes a difficult choice. To all questions, love's the answer; poor are honoured, rich refused. Who will hear this timeless witness as a young girl bears us Good News? Mary has conceived in scandal; how God's grace surprises us all ! Can we comprehend the purpose of salvation starting so small? In the squalour of a barnyard, far from sheltered neighbourhood, careful plans have been up-ended. How can God now turn this to good? Answering the unexpected, Mary's faith and danger entwined; carrying the light within her, soon revealed to all humankind. So make room for God among us; peace to all, let people laud. Then we all may serve as midwives for the reborn fam'-ly of God. Text: © Allan Baer, 2012 290 Indian Rd., Kingston ON Canada K7M 1T8 email: allanbaer7@gmail.com website: www.crossroadsunited.ca/spirit