Setting Marti McCartney Crow's text based on John 1:1-14 and Phil. 2:5-11, A. Royce Eckhardt begins with the simplicity and quiet adoration of many nativity carols, then builds to a dramatic crescendo with the proclamation, "God is with us, Emmanuel." A quiet interlude follows and leads to a return of the tranquil and flowing music of the manger bed.