To Pauline

For a mother of five
Christmas has arrived
In your home—now we shall celebrate!
God’s angels around you congregate
And fill each platter, cup, and bowl,
When feeding your little ones is the goal
By which your heart is driven;
Then look to Him, from whom is given
From five small loaves, twelve baskets of food.
He nourishes you and provides for your brood—
A fullness of joy to them bringing,
Which sets your heart a-singing,
To your dear Lord, a song of life wells up inside—
He who chose you and us to be His bride.
The help that comes from afar
God gladly sends to you, right where you are.

From your husband, J. O. Smith, Christmas Eve 1917