We Wait: An Advent Poem
By Brittany Longsdorf of Lewiston, ME, USA
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises…Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and those who live in it. Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the LORD, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity. —Psalm 98:4, 7–9 NRSV
As a child watches the window
for signs of first snow
we wait
for you
oh, infant Christ
We have stooped low at the River Jordan
with John the Baptist,
plagued by uncertainties,
our world in turmoil,
tempest-tossed days
We have been righteously called out,
over-taxed, burdened,
found wanting
on our journey
We have knocked at the inn,
found rejection,
uncommon hope,
deep warmth
in the unlikely places
We have gathered here
compassion and community
sifting through the darkness
for one white flake
one flurry of light
for the world
We are watching at the manger
we wait
for you
oh, infant Christ.
Advent Prayer Phrase
Anticipation deepens within.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Spend a few moments dwelling in God’s presence. Pay attention to where your heart feels drawn into prayer. What words, images, or themes in this story lead you to reflect on your own faith journey? What is God’s invitation to you this day?
