Dear Friends,

I have recently come across a beautiful book of Christmas poems by Ann Weems entitled ?Kneeling in Bethlehem?. I would like to share one of these poems with you, it is entitled ?In December Darkness?.

The whole world waits in December darkness

for a glimpse of the Light of God.

Even those who snarl ?Humbug!?

and chase away the carollers

have been seen looking toward the skies.

The one who declared he never would forgive

has forgiven,

and those who left home

have returned,

and even wars are halted,

if briefly,

as the whole world looks starward.

In December darkness

we peer from our windows

watching for an angel with rainbow wings

to announce the Hope of the World.

I am sure that as we peer from our windows into the December darkness there are fears that we hold in our hearts. We look for an Angel, a messenger of God who will announce hope for our world.

Recall the words of the Angel to the fearful shepherds in Bethlehem recorded in Saint Luke?s Gospel:

?Do not be afraid, for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For today in the City of

David a Saviour has been born to you who is Christ the Lord?.

And with this announcement a multitude of Angels was heard praising God and singing:

Glory to God in the highest and on earth

peace to those on whom his favour rests.?

@EDITRULE:

We all need to hear and to trust the word of God?s messenger: ?Be not afraid.? At this Christmas season, we are invited to open our hearts to hope, the Hope that God has sent into the world who is Jesus, the Prince of Peace, true God and true Man, who is born for us today.