The Threefold Nativity

Prima dies hominem peperit, sanctumque secunda v Natalis; pariet Mors tertia glorificatum. v

My firsjt birth-day brought forth a manV in sin:

But one that could not work, por go, nor speak. My second did a life of grace begin,

But such, alas! as yet ’s diseased and weak. The third from fleshly bonds will me release,

And bring me to the world of glorious light: Where all my sins and vexing griefs shall cease;

And faith shall end in perfect love and sight. This death begins; but ’tis the resurrection,

That fully shall obliterate sin’s story; And state both soul and body in perfection, [glory.

Where grace and nature shall be crown ‘d with As nature taught me first complaining cries,

Before it did acquaint me with delight: So grace with grief first fill’d my heart and eyes,

Before it shewed me the joyful sight,

b() Baxter’s poems.

Why should not death then be a straiter door, Than either that of nature or of grace?

Which brings us unto the eternal store, Of joy and glory in God’s shining face?