Quiet Spaces 22 December 2023
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Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest Matthew 6:31(a)
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Readings and Reflections
Lord Jesus
Master of both the light and the darkness
send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas
We who have so much to do -
seek quiet spaces
to hear your voice each day
We who are anxious over many things
look forward to your coming among us -
We who are blessed in so many ways
long for the complete joy of your Kingdom
We whose hearts are heavy
seek the joy of your presence
We are your people walking in darkness
yet seeking the light
and to you we say, ‘come Lord Jesus’ Amen
Judy's words
When I was pondering a theme for our Quiet Space just before Christmas … light and darkness immediately came to mind … topics which we have reflected on quite recently. I then thought of carols, and Christmas music … and one of my favourite pieces of music immediately popped into my head! Some of you may already know the wonderful piece by Morten Lauridsen – O Magnum Mysterium – which was first performed in December 1994. Since then, it has been recorded scores of times and performed thousands more, making it one of the most loved pieces of Christmas music ever written.
We’re going to listen to it just before our time of stillness, but before that, let’s try to explore and ponder Mysterium – ‘Mystery’
During the Anglican Eucharist Prayer – we proclaim the Mystery of our Faith – often introduced by the words, Great is the Mystery of our Faith. However there is much more – which is mystery! (and perhaps all of these are essentially part of our faith). The mystery of light ….. of darkness …. the mystery of hope …. of peace … and of love and in God’s world of creation there is SO much mystery, and wonder, which we can see and experience each day.
The mystery of Love cannot really be pondered - without remembering the deep mystery of the love of Mary, as she said yes to God.
I don’t know whether I have ever stopped long enough to really wonder what might have happened, had she not said yes.
The poet-priest Malcolm Guite writes about the Annunciation …..
‘But on this day a young girl stopped to see
With open eyes and heart. She heard the voice;
The promise of His glory yet to be,
As time stood still for her to make a choice;
Gabriel knelt and not a feather stirred,
The Word himself was waiting on her word.’
In our Quiet Spaces we often reflect on trees, one of the wonders of God’s creation - which, mysteriously, seem to play a big part in our lives, in so many ways. Many of us are emotionally affected by the changing seasons, and the different appearance of the trees -
as they morph through the rebirth of spring, the fruition of summer, the beauty, colour, during autumn, a rather wonderful prelude, I often feel, as they prepare to ‘let go’ during the winter months … to be ready to grow again as spring approaches.
Not just a mystery, we might say … but also an ongoing miracle – as with the many mysteries embodied and embedded in all of God’s creation.
For us to look at the mysteries of light, darkness, hope, peace and love in more depth might take a lot longer that the time we have here today … and you will find a number of thoughts and readings – to ponder - some here today … and some later, perhaps over Christmas, and also into the new year.
I hadn’t forgotten the mystery of Christmas, by the way …
the most wonderful mystery of all.
God coming to us – to be with us -
‘He will be called Immanuel, God with us.’
God came to meet us here on earth,
where we are,
as who we are,
to help us discover something of the mystery of our being,
and of our lives on this earth,
and about the mystery of hope –
the mystery of peace,
for us to be able to live within the mysteries of light and darkness,
not just the physical light and dark of creation,
but the seasons of darkness and light in our own lives,
and of the world….
It's something we have no doubt thought about quite a lot, during the past couple of months during the Israel / Gaza war. And – perhaps the greatest of all - for us to come to know about the mystery of God’s love … that love which was from the beginning of creation - for each of us - and became manifest in the mystery of that first Christmas in Bethlehem ….
Henri Nouwen writes, ‘the great mystery of Christmas that continues to give us comfort and consolation: we are not alone on our journey.’
So let’s just hear the words of Magnum Mysterium - in English - before listening to the beautiful, sung rendition in Latin, as we enter our time of stillness.
O Magnum Mysterium
O great mystery,
and wonderful sacrament,
that animals should see the newborn Lord,
lying in a manger!
Blessed is the virgin whose womb
was worthy to bear
the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Alleluia!
O Magnum Mysterium by Morten Lauridsen – sung by the Nordic Chamber Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn5ken3RJBo
Silence and Stillness
During our silence, perhaps think of one word which comes you today from our reflections
Reading
Christmas on the Edge by Malcolm Guite
Christmas sets the centre on the edge;
The edge of town, the outhouse of the inn,
The fringe of empire, far from privilege
And power, on the edge and outer spin
of turning worlds, a margin of small stars
that edge a galaxy itself light years
from some unguessed-at cosmic origin.
Christmas sets the centre at the edge.
And from this day our world is re-aligned
A tiny seed unfolding in the womb
becomes the source from which we all unfold
and flower into being.
We are healed,
The end begins,
the tomb becomes a womb,
For now in him all things are re-aligned.
Sharing and Group Discussion
So … how was your quiet time?
Words we mentioned
Emmanuel Evolution Blessings Peace Beautiful Love Preparation Fullness Touching Hope Angels Ensnared
Restoration Joy and Sadness
Blessing
WHERE THE LIGHT BEGINS
A Blessing for Christmas Day
Perhaps it does not begin.
Perhaps it is always.
Perhaps it takes a lifetime
to open our eyes,
to learn to see what has forever
shimmered in front of us--
the luminous line
of the map
in the dark -
the vigil flame
in the house
of the heart
the love
so searing
we cannot keep
from singing -
from crying out
in testimony and praise.
Perhaps this day
will be the mountain
over which
the dawn breaks.
Perhaps we
will turn our face
toward it,
toward what has been
always.
Perhaps
our eyes
will finally open
in ancient recognition,
willingly dazzled,
illuminated at last.
Perhaps this day
the light begins in us.
Amen
—Jan Richardson from Circle of Grace: A Book of Blessings for the Season
Thoughts to Ponder:
A passage from Henri Nouwen’s book "Gracias," written during his sojourn in Latin America:
"God came to us because he wanted to join us on the road, to listen to our story, and to help us realize that we are not walking in circles but moving towards the house of peace and joy. This is the great mystery of Christmas that continues to give us comfort and consolation: we are not alone on our journey.
The God of love who gave us life sent his only Son to be with us at all times and in all places, so that we never have to feel lost in our struggles but always can trust that he walks with us. The challenge is to let God be who he wants to be.
A part of us clings to our aloneness and does not allow God to touch us where we are most in pain. Often, we hide from him precisely those places in ourselves where we feel guilty, ashamed, confused, and lost. Thus, we do not give him a chance to be with us where we feel most alone.
Christmas is the renewed invitation not to be afraid and to let him - whose love is greater than our own hearts and minds can comprehend - be our companion."
Henri Nouwen
"The mystery of love is that it protects and respects the aloneness of the other and creates the free space where he can convert his loneliness into a solitude that can be shared."
From Henri Nouwen’s book ‘Reaching Out’Learn : http://www.imagecatholicbooks.com/book/122876/reaching-out/
A prayer from Henri Nouwen
Lord Jesus. Master of both the light and the darkness
send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas
We who have so much to do - seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us -
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your Kingdom.
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence
We are your people walking in darkness, yet seeking the light
and to you we say, ‘come Lord Jesus’ Amen
Christmas Eve
Deep within me God lies curled; his path goes through me to the world: deep within me God lies curled.
I cannot travel, I must wait; the way is dark, the hour is late:
I cannot travel, I must wait.
I need a place – where can I turn to find the help for which I yearn?
I need a place – where can I turn?
I must lie down upon the earth to bring the God within to birth:
I must lie down upon the earth.
The animals will wait with me,
and share the waiting patiently,
and share the waiting patiently
And you, my love, will hold the light, to ease my labour in the night:
and you, O Love, will hold the light.
Now I must take and I must give, breathe in and out, that He may live:
now I must take and I must give.
A song will sound, a star will shine. I give Him birth who gave me mine:
a song will sound, a star will shine.
Sue Sabbagh - Iona Community -Winter
Seeking silence
Where do you go to find silence, to listen closely, to seek winter’s deep stillness?
Draw winter’s shawl around your shoulders, wrap yourself in the soothing darkness, feel the embrace of God’s love.
Find comfort in hidden places, know you need not fear the dark.
Seek the wisdom of the season: the unseen roots deep underground, the bulbs, the tiny seeds,
waiting with infinite patience, waiting with hidden hope.
Honour the winter dormancy of your soul.
Give yourself permission to wait and be still, no need to rush, no need to rush …
Wait in the darkness. Hold tight to the promise.
New hope will come with the tender green beauty of spring.
Fiona van Wissen - Iona Community - Winter
L’enfance du christ – The Shepherds’ Farewell - Berlioz
Thou must leave thy lowly dwelling, the humble crib, the stable bare.
Babe, all mortal babes excelling, content our earthly lot to share.
Loving father, Loving mother, shelter thee with tender care!
Blessed Jesus, we implore thee with humble love and holy fear.
In the land that lies before thee, forget not us who linger here!
May the shepherd's lowly calling, ever to thy heart be dear!
Blest are ye beyond all measure, thou happy father, mother mild!
Guard ye well your heav’nly treasure, the Prince of Peace, The Holy Child!
God go with you, God protect you, guide you safely through the wild!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGBTNlbRbeM
From Lectio 365 – December 2023
Thank you, Father, that you sent your son to save us -
May the hope of Jesus be born again amongst us this Christmas.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you will come again in glory;
that all the kingdoms of this world will be your Kingdom,
and that every eye will see it.
We long for you to return, and to make everything new.
Thank you, Holy Spirit, for filling us afresh.
May the light of Christ be born again in us today.
As I look to a world that is despairing and adorned in darkness, I choose one situation I have recently seen in the news and pray for the ancient words of the prophet Malachai to be fulfilled …
O Lord, turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents. L365 - 19.12.2023
Lord, in this busy season, please help me to be still. I am opening my ears now to hear you, quietly preparing my heart for the wonder of your coming at Christmas. L365
Lord, by the mystery of your grace, we ask that we may truly see the gifts you have given us. May we always use them for your work, to show your love to others (and often to ourselves!) Help us not to try to overshadow your light,
in our enthusiasm or longing for praise; but may we always try to let your light shine brightly through us
Judy Greenfield
How did Mary cope with this greatest of all mysteries? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has come to make you new?
This child that you delivered, will soon deliver you
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will calm the storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little baby
You kiss the face of God
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear
The dead will live again
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the Lamb
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy
Is heaven's perfect Lamb?
That sleeping child you're holding is the great, I Am
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? Oh
I sometimes forget that I was created for Joy.
My mind is too busy. My Heart is too heavy for me to remember
that I have been called to dance the Sacred dance of life.
I was created to smile, to Love, to be lifted up, and to lift others up.
O Sacred One, untangle my feet from all that ensnares.
Free my soul, that we might Dance
and that our dancing might be contagious.
~Hafiz
TO BE BORN IS TO BE CHOSEN From Anam Cara by John O’Donohue
To be born is to be chosen. No-one is here by accident. Each one of us was sent here for a special destiny.
Often the deeper meaning of a fact emerges when it is read in a spiritual way. When you consider the moment of conception, there are endless possibilities. Yet in most cases, only one child is conceived. This seems to suggest that a certain selectivity is already at work. This selectivity intimates a sheltering providence which dreamed you, created you and always minds you. You were not consulted on the major question which shape your destiny: when you were to be born; where you would be born; to whom you would be born. Imagine the difference it would have made to your life had you been born into the house next door. Your identity was not offered for your choosing. In other words, a special destiny was prepared for you. But you were also given freedom and creativity to go beyond the given, to make a new set of relationships and to forge an ever-new identity, inclusive of the old but not limited to it. This is the secret pulse of growth, quietly at work behind the outer façade of your life. Destiny sets the outer frame of experience and life; freedom finds and fills it inner form.
For millions of years, before you arrived here, the dream of your individuality was carefully prepared. You were sent to a shape of destiny in which you would be able to express the special gift you bring to the world. Sometimes this gift may involve suffering and pain that can neither be accounted for nor explained. There is a unique destiny for each person. Each one of us has something to do here that can be done by no-one else. If someone else could fulfil your destiny, then they would be in your place, and you would not be here. It is in the depths of your life that you will discover the invisible necessity which has brought you here. When you begin to decipher this, your gift and giftedness come alive. Your heart quickens and the urgency of living rekindles your creativity.
If you can awaken this sense of destiny, you come into rhythm with your life. You fall out of rhythm when you renege on your potential and talent, when you settle for the mediocre as a refuge from the call. When you lose rhythm your life becomes wearyingly deliberate or anonymously automatic. Rhythm is the secret key to balance and belonging. This will not collapse into false contentment or passivity. It is the rhythm of a dynamic equilibrium, a readiness of spirit, a poise which is not self-centred. This sense of rhythm is ancient. All life came out of the ocean; each one of us comes out of the waters of the womb; the ebb and flow of the tides is alive in the ebb and flow of our breathing. When you are in rhythm with your nature nothing destructive can touch you. Providence is at one with you; it minds you and brings you to your new horizons. To be spiritual is to be in rhythm.
From Anam Cara: Spiritual Wisdom from the Celtic World by John O’Donohue
Blessings
Rev Judy and Karen
During our silence, perhaps think of one word which comes you today from our reflections
Reading
Christmas on the Edge by Malcolm Guite
Christmas sets the centre on the edge;
The edge of town, the outhouse of the inn,
The fringe of empire, far from privilege
And power, on the edge and outer spin
of turning worlds, a margin of small stars
that edge a galaxy itself light years
from some unguessed-at cosmic origin.
Christmas sets the centre at the edge.
And from this day our world is re-aligned
A tiny seed unfolding in the womb
becomes the source from which we all unfold
and flower into being.
We are healed,
The end begins,
the tomb becomes a womb,
For now in him all things are re-aligned.
Sharing and Group Discussion
So … how was your quiet time?
Words we mentioned
Emmanuel Evolution Blessings Peace Beautiful Love Preparation Fullness Touching Hope Angels Ensnared
Restoration Joy and Sadness
Blessing
WHERE THE LIGHT BEGINS
A Blessing for Christmas Day
Perhaps it does not begin.
Perhaps it is always.
Perhaps it takes a lifetime
to open our eyes,
to learn to see what has forever
shimmered in front of us--
the luminous line
of the map
in the dark -
the vigil flame
in the house
of the heart
the love
so searing
we cannot keep
from singing -
from crying out
in testimony and praise.
Perhaps this day
will be the mountain
over which
the dawn breaks.
Perhaps we
will turn our face
toward it,
toward what has been
always.
Perhaps
our eyes
will finally open
in ancient recognition,
willingly dazzled,
illuminated at last.
Perhaps this day
the light begins in us.
Amen
—Jan Richardson from Circle of Grace: A Book of Blessings for the Season
Thoughts to Ponder:
A passage from Henri Nouwen’s book "Gracias," written during his sojourn in Latin America:
"God came to us because he wanted to join us on the road, to listen to our story, and to help us realize that we are not walking in circles but moving towards the house of peace and joy. This is the great mystery of Christmas that continues to give us comfort and consolation: we are not alone on our journey.
The God of love who gave us life sent his only Son to be with us at all times and in all places, so that we never have to feel lost in our struggles but always can trust that he walks with us. The challenge is to let God be who he wants to be.
A part of us clings to our aloneness and does not allow God to touch us where we are most in pain. Often, we hide from him precisely those places in ourselves where we feel guilty, ashamed, confused, and lost. Thus, we do not give him a chance to be with us where we feel most alone.
Christmas is the renewed invitation not to be afraid and to let him - whose love is greater than our own hearts and minds can comprehend - be our companion."
Henri Nouwen
"The mystery of love is that it protects and respects the aloneness of the other and creates the free space where he can convert his loneliness into a solitude that can be shared."
From Henri Nouwen’s book ‘Reaching Out’Learn : http://www.imagecatholicbooks.com/book/122876/reaching-out/
A prayer from Henri Nouwen
Lord Jesus. Master of both the light and the darkness
send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas
We who have so much to do - seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us -
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your Kingdom.
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence
We are your people walking in darkness, yet seeking the light
and to you we say, ‘come Lord Jesus’ Amen
Christmas Eve
Deep within me God lies curled; his path goes through me to the world: deep within me God lies curled.
I cannot travel, I must wait; the way is dark, the hour is late:
I cannot travel, I must wait.
I need a place – where can I turn to find the help for which I yearn?
I need a place – where can I turn?
I must lie down upon the earth to bring the God within to birth:
I must lie down upon the earth.
The animals will wait with me,
and share the waiting patiently,
and share the waiting patiently
And you, my love, will hold the light, to ease my labour in the night:
and you, O Love, will hold the light.
Now I must take and I must give, breathe in and out, that He may live:
now I must take and I must give.
A song will sound, a star will shine. I give Him birth who gave me mine:
a song will sound, a star will shine.
Sue Sabbagh - Iona Community -Winter
Seeking silence
Where do you go to find silence, to listen closely, to seek winter’s deep stillness?
Draw winter’s shawl around your shoulders, wrap yourself in the soothing darkness, feel the embrace of God’s love.
Find comfort in hidden places, know you need not fear the dark.
Seek the wisdom of the season: the unseen roots deep underground, the bulbs, the tiny seeds,
waiting with infinite patience, waiting with hidden hope.
Honour the winter dormancy of your soul.
Give yourself permission to wait and be still, no need to rush, no need to rush …
Wait in the darkness. Hold tight to the promise.
New hope will come with the tender green beauty of spring.
Fiona van Wissen - Iona Community - Winter
L’enfance du christ – The Shepherds’ Farewell - Berlioz
Thou must leave thy lowly dwelling, the humble crib, the stable bare.
Babe, all mortal babes excelling, content our earthly lot to share.
Loving father, Loving mother, shelter thee with tender care!
Blessed Jesus, we implore thee with humble love and holy fear.
In the land that lies before thee, forget not us who linger here!
May the shepherd's lowly calling, ever to thy heart be dear!
Blest are ye beyond all measure, thou happy father, mother mild!
Guard ye well your heav’nly treasure, the Prince of Peace, The Holy Child!
God go with you, God protect you, guide you safely through the wild!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGBTNlbRbeM
From Lectio 365 – December 2023
Thank you, Father, that you sent your son to save us -
May the hope of Jesus be born again amongst us this Christmas.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you will come again in glory;
that all the kingdoms of this world will be your Kingdom,
and that every eye will see it.
We long for you to return, and to make everything new.
Thank you, Holy Spirit, for filling us afresh.
May the light of Christ be born again in us today.
As I look to a world that is despairing and adorned in darkness, I choose one situation I have recently seen in the news and pray for the ancient words of the prophet Malachai to be fulfilled …
O Lord, turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents. L365 - 19.12.2023
Lord, in this busy season, please help me to be still. I am opening my ears now to hear you, quietly preparing my heart for the wonder of your coming at Christmas. L365
Lord, by the mystery of your grace, we ask that we may truly see the gifts you have given us. May we always use them for your work, to show your love to others (and often to ourselves!) Help us not to try to overshadow your light,
in our enthusiasm or longing for praise; but may we always try to let your light shine brightly through us
Judy Greenfield
How did Mary cope with this greatest of all mysteries? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day walk on water?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has come to make you new?
This child that you delivered, will soon deliver you
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will give sight to a blind man?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will calm the storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy
Has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little baby
You kiss the face of God
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
Mary, did you know? Mary, did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear
The dead will live again
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak
The praises of the Lamb
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy
Is heaven's perfect Lamb?
That sleeping child you're holding is the great, I Am
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? (Mary, did you know?)
Mary, did you know? Oh
I sometimes forget that I was created for Joy.
My mind is too busy. My Heart is too heavy for me to remember
that I have been called to dance the Sacred dance of life.
I was created to smile, to Love, to be lifted up, and to lift others up.
O Sacred One, untangle my feet from all that ensnares.
Free my soul, that we might Dance
and that our dancing might be contagious.
~Hafiz
TO BE BORN IS TO BE CHOSEN From Anam Cara by John O’Donohue
To be born is to be chosen. No-one is here by accident. Each one of us was sent here for a special destiny.
Often the deeper meaning of a fact emerges when it is read in a spiritual way. When you consider the moment of conception, there are endless possibilities. Yet in most cases, only one child is conceived. This seems to suggest that a certain selectivity is already at work. This selectivity intimates a sheltering providence which dreamed you, created you and always minds you. You were not consulted on the major question which shape your destiny: when you were to be born; where you would be born; to whom you would be born. Imagine the difference it would have made to your life had you been born into the house next door. Your identity was not offered for your choosing. In other words, a special destiny was prepared for you. But you were also given freedom and creativity to go beyond the given, to make a new set of relationships and to forge an ever-new identity, inclusive of the old but not limited to it. This is the secret pulse of growth, quietly at work behind the outer façade of your life. Destiny sets the outer frame of experience and life; freedom finds and fills it inner form.
For millions of years, before you arrived here, the dream of your individuality was carefully prepared. You were sent to a shape of destiny in which you would be able to express the special gift you bring to the world. Sometimes this gift may involve suffering and pain that can neither be accounted for nor explained. There is a unique destiny for each person. Each one of us has something to do here that can be done by no-one else. If someone else could fulfil your destiny, then they would be in your place, and you would not be here. It is in the depths of your life that you will discover the invisible necessity which has brought you here. When you begin to decipher this, your gift and giftedness come alive. Your heart quickens and the urgency of living rekindles your creativity.
If you can awaken this sense of destiny, you come into rhythm with your life. You fall out of rhythm when you renege on your potential and talent, when you settle for the mediocre as a refuge from the call. When you lose rhythm your life becomes wearyingly deliberate or anonymously automatic. Rhythm is the secret key to balance and belonging. This will not collapse into false contentment or passivity. It is the rhythm of a dynamic equilibrium, a readiness of spirit, a poise which is not self-centred. This sense of rhythm is ancient. All life came out of the ocean; each one of us comes out of the waters of the womb; the ebb and flow of the tides is alive in the ebb and flow of our breathing. When you are in rhythm with your nature nothing destructive can touch you. Providence is at one with you; it minds you and brings you to your new horizons. To be spiritual is to be in rhythm.
From Anam Cara: Spiritual Wisdom from the Celtic World by John O’Donohue
Blessings
Rev Judy and Karen