One two three
We are signing Caesar’s registry
Four five six
There are places we would rather be
Seven eight nine
Would you tell us where we need to sign this decree
Caesar’s ideas are a waste of time
My name is Phoebe
I am from the East
Oh where’d you get that dress
I need to find a good beauticain
‘Cause my hair is such a mess
I love to shop until I drop
A fashion statement’s what I am
But all I’ve seen is outlet malls
Since I’ve been here in Bethlehem
My name is Sam and I am from the
Western part of this great land
I had to stop along the way and
Give some folks a helping hand
I’m ready for some good home cookin’
Hope they have some candied yams
Oh I forgot there’s not much choosin’
When you’re stuck in Bethlehem
Jerusha is the name they call me
I am from the South you see
I did not want to come
But since I’m here I’ll visit family
Uncle Rueben Grammepa Gorab
Sister Ruth and cousin Gam
I’ll have to visit all of the while
I am here in Bethlehem
My name is Gad I’m from the North
And I sell donkeys old and new
Offer on the spot financing
I have deals you can’t refuse
I’ll give to you extended credit
Even trade you for a lamb
It’s probably the best deal I will
Get while I’m in Bethlehem
We all have come from ev’ry where
From north and south and west and east
To keep our heads and stay alive
We follow Caesar’s loud decree
We’ll let him count us one by one
Just like we were a goat or ram
And when he’s done we’ll have some fun
While we are here in Bethlehem
Song Meaning
This comic Christmas-pageant song imagines travelers registering under Caesar and introduces fictional characters around Bethlehem. It uses humor to set the social scene rather than retelling the Nativity with strict historical detail.
Biblical Message
Luke 2:1–5 records Caesar’s decree, registration, and Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem. Details and characters not found in that passage should be understood as creative additions.
Reflection
Humor can help children enter a familiar story, but distinguish the biblical account from invented pageant dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of “Counting Song”?
This comic Christmas-pageant song imagines travelers registering under Caesar and introduces fictional characters around Bethlehem. It uses humor to set the social scene rather than retelling the Nativity with strict historical detail.
Which Bible passages connect with the song?
Luke 2:1–5 records Caesar’s decree, registration, and Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem. Details and characters not found in that passage should be understood as creative additions.
When can this song be used in worship?
It suits children’s Christmas programs and lighthearted Nativity presentations.