Advent Meditation - December 14th

My life goes on in endless song

above earth's lamentations.

I hear the real though far-off song 

that hails the new creation.

Through all the tumult and the strife, 

I hear it's music ringing

It sounds an echo in my soul, 

how can I keep from singing?

     ~
          Have you ever heard this sung? The words and melody are hauntingly beautiful. So much of our days are burdened with the pain and hardship. Lowry’s song, first published in a Quaker songbook, brings strength and wisdom that remind us of something greater than what is surrounding us now.

          This season invites us to see beyond ourselves. Through prayer and song, through waiting and watching we are looking toward what is next. Here in these words is a visionary hope that draws us forward. It’s almost as if by listening out for that far-off hymn we will be shown our way toward God’s promise. The echo is the grace and the singing is our practice. How can we keep from it?

  Breath prayer: “far-off” “hymn” 

Prayer: Holy God we are grateful for the songs you have given us. Inspire our hearts so that even when we cannot see, we are able to find our way by following the echo that fills our souls. Strengthen our spirits so that we know always that you are with us. And we will be always singing to you, Amen.

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