Trusting the Promise
By Katie Harmon-McLaughlin of San Anselmo, CA, USA
or there is still a vision for the appointed time; it speaks of the end, and does not lie. If it seems to tarry, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay. —Habakkuk 2:3 NRSV
This is the time for realizing that deep hope is for something real .
Impossible say the voices around us firmly fixed in cynicism, despair.
Impossible says the evening news with its montage of tragedy.
Impossible say the politicians inciting suspicion, fear.
Impossible says the hurting heart, daring to dream no more.
Impossible says the “rational” mind, trading wonder for logic.
Impossible say the statistics and the violence and the hatred and planetary ruin and hungry
bodies and broken lives…and yet…
A bright star emerges in our longest, darkest night
And those wisest among us choose to chase it.
What they hear it saying through the shining is worth the vision they journey to find.
Possible it says of equality, justice, kindness, forgiveness, redemption.
Possible it says of an end to poverty, a nonviolent way, radical compassion, peace on earth,
the kingdom of God.
Possible it says of a table of welcome with a feast spread wide for all people to come and be
nourished, reconciled, healed, blessed.
Possible it says of our deepest need, the deepest dream of the Holy birthed in us, through us,
with us, for us.
This is the time for realizing that this deep hope is for something real.
Christmas Prayer Phrase
I ponder the mystery being born in me.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Spend a few moments dwelling in God’s presence. Pay attention to where your heart feels drawn into prayer. What words, images, or themes in this story lead you to reflect on your own faith journey? What is God’s invitation to you this day?