Today in the midst of this season of festivity, I want to acknowledge those who are feeling deep sorrow and loss – – those who are steeped in darkness and despair. I am deeply moved by all that is happening in your lives and in the world and how difficult it can be to move through this holiday time with even a glimmer of hope.
It has been just over twenty years since I experienced poisoning by pesticides in my work place. I fell into darkness and despair when my health crashed and I lost my life and dreams as I had known them. I have lived through the challenges of finding my way through the shadows – – wounded healer though I be. I say HEALER, for although I am not “cured”, this experience has offered the gift of healing in many ways. I have had the opportunity of Learning to Walk in the Dark (the title of Barbara Brown Taylor’s popular book).
Today I just want to sit with you in the dark days of your longings.
The words from a meaningful song come to mind.
“I will hold the Christ-light for you
In the night time of your fear.
I will hold my hand out to you;
Speak the peace you long to hear.”
Today I sit in quiet stillness and hold the Christ Light for you and for the world.
Here are more words from the song to reflect on:
Sister, let me be your servant.
Let me be as Christ to you.
Pray that I might have the grace
To let you be my servant, too.
We are pilgrims on a journey.
We are brothers on the road.
We are here to help each other
Walk the mile and bear the load.
I will hold the Christ-light for you
In the night time of your fear.
I will hold my hand out to you;
Speak the peace you long to hear.
I will weep when you are weeping.
When you laugh, I’ll laugh with you.
I will share your joy and sorrow
Till we’ve seen this journey through.
When we sing to God in heaven,
We shall find such harmony
Born of all we’ve known together
Of Christ’s love and agony.
Brother, let me be your servant.
Let me be as Christ to you.
Pray that I might have the grace
To let you be my servant, too.
~ Richard Gillard
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