On the Incarnation

by St. John of the Cross

Then He called an Archangel,
known as Gabriel,
and sent him to a Virgin
known as Mary,

at whose consent
the mystery took place,
in whom the Trinity
clothed the Word with flesh.

And although three performed the deed,
it was done through the one;
and the Word lived Incarnate
in Mary's womb.

And He Who had only a Father
now had a Mother too,
but she was not like others
who are conceived by man.

From her own flesh
He received His flesh
so He is called
the Son of God and of man.