A Time like This

Into the Darkest Hour

It was a time like this,
War and tumult of war,
a horror in the air,
Hungry yawned the abyss--
and yet there came the star
and the child most wonderfully there.

It was a time like this
of fear and lust for power,
license and greed and blight--
and yet the Prince of bliss
came into the darkest hour
in quiet and silent light.

And in a time like this
how celebrate his birth
when all things fall apart?
Ah! wonderful it is
with no room on the earth
the stable is our heart.

I wish I could tell you that was my first attempt at poetry, but I hope you wouldn't believe it. It was written by Madeleine L'Engle, published in Winter Song ten years ago, yet sounding as if it were composed yesterday. Ah! Wonderful it is! The stable is our heart!

Last evening we went to Winthrop University's Festival of Carols. Unlike the public schools for lower grades, the program fearlessly featured songs about Christ the Lord. Lots of families were there, as well as university students (I think they were required; at least they were getting their electronic i.d. cards scanned as they entered). The Gospel is clear in the carols. "God rest you merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay. Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas day, to save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray."

Sunday evening during the party here, some of the guests shared favorite Christmas memories. Some said their best times were overseas--far from the commercialism and extravagance so annoying here. Others fondly remembered simple (poor) times at home long ago. Our family has agreed to skinny down the shopping this year in order to enjoy one another without the frazzle.

I am so thankful for life. And your love and prayers.

Carol