We draw closer. The season of waiting will soon be over. Presents, wrapped so enticingly, will soon be revealed. Feasts will groan in our bellies. Carols will have been sung.

But for now, let’s rest in the arms of anticipation. Lets be grateful for the good things in our lives.

For the people who hold us, nourish us, cherish us. (But let’s remember also those who spend too much time alone.)

For the security we feel – the roof that shelters us and the money that pays the bills. (But let’s remember also those who have no home and those caught up in the curse of scarcity.)

For the peace we dwell within – the safety of our streets. (But let’s remember that in other places not far away, children are sheltering from bombs.)

Before all the feasting let’s find some stillness and sit with gratefulness for a while.

Peace be with us



In the quiet space between snowflakes

We listen to sad songs, and

Feel the prickle of tears, pushed

By beautiful broken things 

Less than half-perceived

But never forgotten



In the warm space you made for me

I hide, guilty for those we left outside

Wishing our table was bigger

That every mouth was filled

Every refugee was home

Like we are. Hoping that



In the dark space between all those twinkling lights

Peace is waiting

Like scented water

Fingered by frost and ready to fall -

Ready to anoint our dirty old ground

Like Emmanuel