December 24th, Advent Day 28

ONE LAST LOOK

The season of Advent draws to a close on this night, Christmas Eve. The savior of the world arrives, not with elaborate celebrations or media fanfare, but silently, so silently, in the quiet dark of that holy night.

“No human ear can hear his coming” says the old and favorite hymn...this great good news can only be apprehended through the meekness of our hearts.

As you settle down for a winter’s nap this Christmas eve, remember to stop, look, and especially listen. Those who are wise, still seek him…wherever he may be found: in dreams, under silent stars, in darkened streets…in the faces of those we know and love, as well as in the perfect strangers we encounter in small worlds on our way.

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by

Yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting light

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above

While mortals sleep the angels keep their watch of wondering love

O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth.

And praises sing to God the king, and peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently

The wondrous gift is giv’n!

So God imparts to human hearts

The blessings of his heav’n. No ear may hear his coming;

But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him, still The dear Christ enters in.

Text: Phillips Brooks, 1835–1893

Music: Lewis H. Redner, 1831–1908