I cannot stay a baby

I cannot stay a baby if I'm to set you free
for I have to climb the steep hill called Calvary.
I need to leave the manger to become a man,
and follow the path that completes Salvations plan.

Although you've just celebrated my nativity
another thirty years have been given to me.
There are people to heal and I've so much to say
to spread the Good news and walk the heavenly way.

I've a battle to fight and many souls to win,
Satan to conquer to free humankind from sin.
There are miracles to perform and a Gospel to tell,
death to overpower with its forces of hell

There is no other way, for I must die your death
and cry out "Father, forgive," with my final breath.
And then I shall see of the travail of my soul
as myriads enter heaven, cleansed and made whole.

This poem was a finalist in the December 2013 poetry contest