He Had Made Cradles

He bowed in awe, mute with humility--
He had made cradles for many a little one--
Before him in a manger-cradle lay
        A Kingly Son.

Not his, but born of Mary. Not over strange
Was the clean stable with its scent of hay;
He had known mangers and contented cattle
        With their gentle way.

He knew the voice of prophecy, and spoke
With an angel; learned of Mary's promised Son.
While waiting, tenderly he made a cradle
        For the Little One.

They two would roam the fields of Nazareth;
Would both be carpenters until He grew ...
He bowed his head in tender reverence
        For he knew ... He knew!