The Contemplative Path

CHRISTMAS VESPERS

Church of St Thomas, Manhattan

Robert Trabold

Flickering candles decked with greens

church garnished by Christmas wreathes

powerful organ music touches – shakes strong gothic columns

burning incense arises – sweetens the air

light voices of  boys’ choir announce good news.

Stately procession ushers us into the presence of the sacred.

Unveiling the crèche – Mary and Joseph gaze

at the little infant surrounded by straw and animals.

Angels sang in the skies that first night –

choir’s voices now repeat the good news.

Tears come to my eyes – such a longing of hope –

longing for light in a world of darkness – war!

How can we ever end the bullets that wound so many people?

bullets of words – bullets of guns!

Tears fill my eyes again – tears of hope – confidence

my hands are clutching – groping in the darkness

tears fill – touch my whole body.

Clouds of incense surround me with mystery –

mystery of light in darkness.

I sit with my tears – knowing that

my Beloved is present – hidden in the music and song.

He will not leave me along in the night – cold.

I feel the touch of his hands – helping me carry the burden.

My heart feels lighter – warmth – light of the crèche

lifts me – I stand upright.