Nurture

Where the Light Begins

stjohnstmarkchurchburyThursday, December 24, 2020

Last Sunday we had a very untraditional Carol Service. It was a Zoomed mix of carols, Christmas songs and reflections… plus a visit from Santa and a Christmas jumper competition! In one of the quieter moments was this blessing from Jan Richardson called: ‘Where the Light Begins’. It can be found in her wonderful book, ‘Circle of Grace’ and by following this link to Jan’s website.

We wanted to share it with you. Thanks again to Jan for the inspiration.

God’s blessing on you all this Christmas.

Where the Light Begins – A Blessing for Christmas

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.

—Jan Richardson
from Circle of Grace

The picture is: Where the Light Begins © Jan Richardson. janrichardson.com

For the beautiful ‘Gabriel’s Annunciation’, also by Jan, please go to this page.