Introduction
“The Gift” is a poignant and heartfelt ballad performed by the American country duo Joey + Rory, featured on their 2011 holiday album, A Farmhouse Christmas . Written by Stephanie Davis, the song narrates the touching story of Maria, a poor orphan girl who, despite her own hardships, shows compassion by rescuing an injured bird. As Christmas approaches, Maria, feeling she has nothing worthy to offer, brings the healed bird to the church’s nativity scene. In a miraculous moment, the bird takes flight and sings a beautiful song, symbolizing the true spirit of giving and the profound impact of selfless acts.
Joey + Rory, comprised of husband-and-wife duo Joey and Rory Feek, were known for their authentic storytelling and harmonious blend of country and gospel influences. Their rendition of “The Gift” showcases Joey’s angelic vocals complemented by Rory’s grounded harmonies, creating a sound that is both tender and timeless . The song’s acoustic arrangement and sincere delivery invite listeners to reflect on the intangible treasures of life—love, compassion, and faith.
Released during a time when their music deeply resonated with fans for its honesty, “The Gift” stands out as an ode to the simplicity and beauty of life. It serves as a reminder to cherish the small, often overlooked moments and to recognize the profound impact of kindness and generosity. Through their music, Joey + Rory continue to inspire listeners to find joy in the little things that make life rich.
Video
Lyrics
A poor orphan girl named Maria
Was walking to market one day
She stopped for the rest by the roadside
Where a bird with a broken wing lay
A few moments passed ’til she saw it
For its feathers were covered with sand
But soon clean and wrapped, it was travelling
In the warmth of Maria’s small hand
She happily spent her last peso
On a cage made of rushes and twine
She fed it loose corn from the market
And watched it grow stronger with time
Now the Christmas Eve service was coming
And the church shone with tinsel and light
And all of the town folk brought presents
To lay by the manger that night
There were diamonds, and incense, and perfumes
In packages fit for a king
But for one ragged bird in a small cage
Maria had nothing to bring
She waited till just before midnight
So no one would see her go in
And crying she knelt by the manger
For her gift was unworthy of Him
Then a voice spoke to her through the darkness
Maria, what brings you to me
If the bird in the cage is your offering
Then open the door, let me see
Though she trembled, she did as He asked her
And out of the cage, the bird flew
Soaring up into the rafters
On a wing that had healed just as new
Just then the midnight bells rang out
And the little bird started to sing
A song that no words could recapture
Whose beauty was fit for a king
Now Maria felt blessed just to listen
To that cascade of notes, sweet and long
As her offering was lifted to heaven
By the very first nightingale’s song