The old woman’s eyes gaze back and forth
at her gnarled hands
and the gnarled branches revealed
on the ancient tree
comparing the two.
Now that the leaves have dropped
And the birds’ nests exposed
Twists and turns are clearly viewed.
Both hands and the tree branches
Have suffered and yet
loveliness has formed
in the hearts that reveal
divine one-ing.
Reflecting upon a
specific Christmas Eve
when the flame was passed one by one.
The whole sanctuary shimmered and
she could see the
Glories Streaming, yet
was not terrified.
Mesmerized by the sight!
Small angelic beings
and loved ones faces transformed!
Not one space was left, in the rafters
above, or in
her heart. She knew then that
the Christmas Eve holy
immersion recurs
Every year as candles
are lifted and we sing
in blessed harmony
It was some time before I could even speak of seeing the presence of the heavenly beings that one Christmas Eve. Perhaps my eyes were opened because for too long I’d doubted the faith of my ancestors and was even angry at God. I didn’t know how else to process the death of Justin, my eleven-year-old nephew. Even now, we can’t help but wonder how his sister, brother, and mother’s lives would have been different if he’d survived that day.
Yet at this particular Christmas Eve worship, when I truly saw the glories stream from the heavens above, the presence of Christ brought peace beyond understanding, a sense of safety, and a heart filled with love.
For those of you who grieve for loved ones, know that they are not lost. They are transformed and truly are the light! Your love for one another is eternal as Christ’s love streams from the heavenly to the earthly realm.
And now, wherever you may be, receiving the anointing of healing as you place a small amount of oil upon your forehead.
May the Holy spirit anoint you with healing of body, mind, and spirit.
May you receive the peace of Jesus Christ
And know without a doubt that you are a
Beloved, cherished, child of God.
In the name of the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. Amen.
Receive this prayer and know that you are never alone. The divine spirit resides within and we are united one to the other.
In the peace and love of the Messiah,
Rev. Marta Wheeler