re-thinking Christmas

Spiritual resource to share: a pause and a reflection

Even though Christmas is over, it feels that the need for true Christmas has never been greater. I'd like to share a poem that helps me to take another look at the meaning of Christmas. The abrupt assassination of Benazir Bhutto, the growing extremism and intolerance in the headlines these last few days demand the peace and hope that Christmas stands for. It is a stand I hope to nurture the whole year through:

Blest Christmas Morn
by Mary Baker Eddy


Blest Christmas morn, though murky clouds
Pursue thy way,
Thy light was born where storm enshrouds
Nor dawn nor day!

Dear Christ, forever here and near,
No cradle song,
No natal hour and mother's tear,
To thee belong.

Thou God-idea, Life-encrowned,
The Bethlehem babe —
Beloved, replete, by flesh embound —
Was but thy shade!

Thou gentle beam of living Love,
And deathless Life!
Truth infinite, — so far above
All mortal strife,

Or cruel creed, or earth-born taint:
Fill us today
With all thou art — be thou our saint,
Our stay, alway.

To share your thoughts on this or to explore this idea further, please feel free to be in contact with me, add your own comments below, email this article to a friend, or add to the healing finds and sites on the web to the right.