Here is a detailed timeline and cast of characters based on the provided sources:

Detailed Timeline of Main Events

The sources focus entirely on the birth and significance of Jesus Christ, drawing heavily from traditional Christmas carols and songs. The events are presented thematically rather than strictly chronologically, but a general progression can be inferred:

• Ancient Prophecy/Expectation: The concept of a coming "Son of God" who would appear and the world's long wait ("Long lay the world in sin and error pining") are referenced, implying a period of anticipation before Christ's birth.
• The First Noel (Annunciation/Angelic Proclamation): Angels appear to "certain poor shepherds" in fields, proclaiming the birth of the "King of Israel" and bringing "glad tidings." This event is associated with a "glorious song of old."
• The Birth of Jesus in Bethlehem:
  • Jesus is born as a "King on Bethlehem."
  • He is laid in a "lonely manger," described as a "crib for a bed."
  • He is identified as the "little Lord Jesus" and "Holy Infant so tender and mild."
  • Mary, his mother, is present ("on Mary's lap is sleeping," "round yon virgin mother and child").
• Shepherds' Response:
  • Shepherds are "fear and tremble" at the angelic appearance.
  • They "quake at the sight" of glory streaming from heaven.
  • They are called to "come to Bethlehem and see him whose birth the angels sing."
  • They "watch our keeping" over their silent flocks.
• Adoration by Wise Men/Kings: "We three kings of Orient are" travel "field and fountain, moor and mountain" following a star to find the newborn king, bringing "gold" to crown him.
• Cosmic and Heavenly Rejoicing:
  • "Heaven and nature sing" in response to the Lord's coming.
  • Angelic choirs sing in "exaltation," proclaiming "Glory to God in the highest."
  • The "stars are brightly shining" on the night of His birth.
  • "Heavenly hosts" sing "Hallelujah, Christ the savior is born."
• Theological Significance of Jesus's Birth:
  • He is the "Savior of the world," born to "save our sons and daughters."
  • He is the "Prince of Peace," whose "law is love and his gospel is peace."
  • He is born to "break chains" and end oppression, making the "slave our brother."
  • He is "heaven's perfect lamb" and "the great I Am."
  • His birth brings "salvation," "redeeming grace," and "second birth" to the "sons of earth."
  • He is the "Word of the father laid in flesh appearing."
  • He will rule the world with "truth and grace" and make "the nations prove the glories of his righteousness."
  • He is prophesied to perform miracles: walk on water, give sight to the blind, calm storms, and raise the dead.
• Call to Worship and Rejoicing: Throughout the sources, there are repeated calls to "Rejoice," "worship God on high," "adore him," "sing praise," and "fall on your knees." The birth is celebrated as bringing "Joy to the world."

Cast of Characters

• Jesus Christ (The Little Lord Jesus, The King of Israel, The Son of God, The Prince of Peace, The Savior, Emmanuel, Heaven's Perfect Lamb, The Great I Am, The King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Word of the Father): The central figure of all the sources. Born in Bethlehem, laid in a manger. His birth is announced by angels and celebrated by shepherds and kings. He is believed to be divine, capable of miracles, and destined to rule, bring salvation, peace, and love to humanity, offering redemption and a "second birth."
• Mary (Virgin Mother): Jesus's mother, who holds him on her lap. The sources acknowledge her role in delivering Jesus and question if she knew the full scope of her son's future divine powers and mission.
• Angels (Angel Chorus, Heavenly Hosting, Angelic Host): Celestial beings who announce Jesus's birth to shepherds, sing "glorious songs," proclaim "peace on earth, good will to men," and sing "Glory to God in the highest." They are depicted as actively involved in the celebration and revelation of the Nativity.
• Shepherds (Poor Shepherds): Ordinary people who are in their fields keeping watch over their flocks by night when angels appear to them, announcing Jesus's birth. They are called to go and see the newborn king.
• Three Kings (We Three Kings of Orient): Wise men who travel a great distance, guided by a star, to worship the newborn king in Bethlehem, bringing gifts, specifically "gold."
• God (Heavenly Lord, The Father): The ultimate source of the "wondrous gift" of Jesus Christ, who "sent her salvation" and "imparts to human heart the blessings of his heaven." Jesus is described as the "Son of God" and "Word of the Father."