Afterwards

Pain swept away,
  joy remains,
   hope growing,
and, wonder, too,
  for the baby child
   crying in the manger.

Anxiety gone,
  now a memory,
   ahead in view,
and, amazement, too,
   as coming shepherds,
    speak of angels.

A heart warmed,
  flooded with love,
   overcome by Him,
and, gratitude, too,
  for God's goodness,
   the gift of His Son.