My brother in law (retired Presbyterian pastor) sent a message today. He notes “Every year, on the feast of Epiphany it is good to reread, recommit and share Howard Thurman’s poem The Work of Christmas Begins
The Work of Christmas Begins When the song of the angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and the princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flocks, The work of Christmas begins: To find the lost, To heal the broken, To feed the hungry, To release the prisoner, To rebuild the nations, To bring peace among people, To make music in the heart.
We learned Sunday of the visit of the Magi to the newborn king. It seems the Feast of the Epiphany celebrates “Jesus Christ's physical manifestation to the Gentiles”. The message from Mr. Thurman’s poem is one that should resonate all year long. It is so important to look at “what is next” as we exit the wonderful Christmas season and enter the new year. This past year has been difficult for my family and at times it has been a struggle to look and move forward. But, we must, for it is our mission to continue the Christmas message of love. A love so great that He sent his Son to live among us and teach us the simple and marvelous lessons of life. And then to die for us! Wow, simply wow!
There is much to do. As the poem says, we need “to find the lost, heal the broken, feed the hungry, release the prisoner, rebuild the nations, bring peace and make music”. Our church is actively engaged in these activities, some more visible than others. We are feeding the hungry every Friday. And we are certainly making marvelous music for the hearts. Together we are making a difference. Continue to support your church and look for ways to reach out to others. There is much to do and together we can make a difference. It is going to be a challenging year and one that will see great accomplishments and small gestures. We will smile and laugh, we will cry and we will move forward. I am looking forward to 2022 for I know it will be one I can share with my church, my family, and my friends no matter what comes my way.