These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

The Shepherds Heard Some Angels

A bunch of roughnecks on a hill,
keeping sheep alive.
Most night's they're facing fang or kill
from wolfish pack, survive.

These hardened watchers of the dark
have little cause for fear.
No slinking foe will make its mark
with muscled shepherds near.

But suddenly a blinding light
erased their hiding place.
Great angel bands dispatched the night
to speak of coming Grace.

With knocking knees and terror's mask,
they melted in the dust.
"Fear not! Behold! Good News, my task
for all Earth's souls to trust."

"For you this day in David's town,
the King is lately born.
He's by you near, and quickly found
in a manger this Christmas morn.

(Luke 2:8-18)

by Jay O'Toole
on December 15th, 2020