On the Road Again

I went to school in London
Back when I was a youth
It seems a century ago
If you must know the truth

Then, coming home for Christmas
A journey I should like
I got myself to Heathrow
And the workers went on strike

In two days at the airport
They soon ran out of food
We slept on floors and countertops
And you can guess the mood

I got through that experience
With nary a complaint
Remembering my namesake
And why he was a saint.

This is the week they traveled
For Caesar had decreed
A census should be taken
And the counting must proceed

It was no summer progress
The way the story’s told
The winding roads were dangerous
The way was dark and cold

When they got to Bethlehem
They couldn't find a bed
For they couldn't make reservations
And they couldn't call ahead

Oh, but what glory greeted them
Soon after their arrival
The promise and the essence of
Salvation and survival

So when the hand of shadows
And the winds of doubt are blowing
Fearing that we’ll never get
From here to where we’re going

Remember, all are travelers
And what we’re celebrating
Is our guide and our protector
The One we are awaiting