Farewell To The Day

December 2nd

Silently,
Stealthily
the day is ending.
The sun now sets much further towards the south.

Does the sun really disappear beyond the horizon, or is it devoured by the dark woodland...?

One thing is certain.
It disappears.
No questions,
no regrets,
no second thoughts.

A few seconds ago the sun was still discernible, sneakily shining through the trees.
Now the golden hue deepens.
Changing imperceptibly...
yet relentlessly.
I watch on,
knowing there is nothing I can do to hold on to the daylight.
Admiring the uniqueness of the moment,
for never again will the clouds lie in this exact formation,
or at this precise depth.



This sunset does not belong to me.
For many others will see this dazzling display as they journey home,
or walk the dog,
or pause in their preparations
or gaze beyond their screens
to the world beyond their walls.

Others will not have a opportunity or freedom
to pause and admire
the outrageous exuberance
of the evening light.


How much brighter were the skies
that night, when angelic voices filled the air,
and turned night to day, with their reflected glory?

Did the shepherd's faces shine,
as they hurried down
to the town
seeking their Saviour, born
to redeem all?

Do we hurry to worship our Lord with the enthusiasm of the shepherds,
prepared to risk all,
for the glimpse
of the King?

Do our Advent faces reflect God's glory, or the troubles and worries of our damaged world?

Stop.
Look.
Wait.
The season of Advent is upon us.