The First Christmas Eve

I wonder what it was like
On the Eve of that first holy night.
Did Mary know the night before
That tomorrow a Savior would come?

I wonder if anyone paused
And didn't know just why.
Did all creation hold their breath
In great anticipation?

"For unto us a child is born"
But was anyone really looking?
"And to us a son is given"
But did they know it was soon?

I wonder if children laughed
For no particular reason.
Did the heavenly choir prepare their voices
To tell the shepherds the news?

I wonder if ox and sheep
Knew what was soon to come
Did the stars shine out all the brighter
To celebrate Jesus' birth?

"For unto us a child is born"
But was anyone really looking?
"And to us a son is given"
But did they know it was soon?

I know there was no royal feast,
No heralds saying, "Prepare the way."
But did his parents stop and think,
'Maybe He'll come today.'