O Little Town of Bethlehem

Sarah aka Ramblin Folkie offers us this alternative version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem" composed by Graham J Adams which I certainly find very powerful.

O troubled town of Bethlehem
with conflict still you lie.
Above your deep but restless sleep
indifferent stars go by;
yet in your dark streets may you find
resilient, endless light:
for hopes and fears of all the years
were borne in you one night.

For Mary's child was born, and cried
unnerving powers above
whilst God of Life who bears our strife
encouraged hope and love.
O morning stars, now sniper-fire
obscures such hopeful births;
but mothers sing of everything
their prayer still 'peace on earth.'

How silently, how violently
your wondrous gift was given;
while God is grace for every race
your streets with fear are riven.
As Jesus came amongst the poor
(confronting powers-that-be)
through risen will and faith he still
invites us 'set them free.'

O daring child of Bethlehem
empower us all, we pray
to work for peace that wars may cease
and love be born today.
With all the nations angels
proclaiming we shall tell:
"Heal Bethlehem, join 'us' with 'them'"
Amen, Immanuel!

It all goes to remind me that Christ's coming is not about a fluffy story but is about that which can transforms the world.