Advent Meditation - December 12th

Evermore and Evermore

Of the Father’s love begotten, Ere the worlds began to be,

He is Alpha and Omega,
He the source, the ending He,

Of the things that are, that have been,
 and that future years shall see,

Evermore and evermore! 

By His word was all created,
He commanded and 'twas done;

Earth and sky and boundless ocean,
Universe of three in one,

All that sees the moon's soft radiance,
All that breathes beneath the sun, 

Evermore and evermore.
~ Aurelius Prudentius (Verse 2 translated by Roby Furlet Davis, for the English Hymnal [1906])

            This carol sung since the 16th century can continue to move us toward peace. The tune DIVINUM MYSTERIUM haunts me as I find myself almost whispering the hymn. This love that created and is creating still, draws us in and ever closer to the Holy One, the Alpha and the Omega who loves us all. This love that lived before the world ever was, this love that lives now. In you and in me. Here and all round the world.

            In the second stanza we are reminded that “all that breathe” dwell under God’s loving care.  And as we begin to lean into this amazing grace, this mystery of life-giving love calls us to recognize that this love is not only for ourselves, it is for each one of us.

            Advent holds melodies that we have heard throughout our lives. Humming them, or singing them out loud invites them inside us. Listen closely throughout this season for the carols that resonate with your spirit. Hold them close to you, for they are ageless, precious gifts of the season.

Breath Prayer: “All that breathes”  “beneath the sun”

Prayer: Holy One of mystery enter in this day. As we listen for your words for us, may we be open always to your lessons and carols. We pray for all sisters and brothers who dwell on this earth and we pray with very thankful hearts, Amen.

---