On my evening walks I have already seen Christmas trees by the dozens kicked to the curb. For many, it would seem, Christmas is a done deal.
But for us who believe, just this gentle reminder, that Christmas continues until January 6th. And, I would argue, its power and influence must continue all our life long. For Christ, whose birth in our history and our hearts is celebrated each year, desires to come to full maturity in each of us as well, and through us, to see his Kingdom become more evident.
Rather than multiply my own words, perhaps Howard Thurman’s reflective words are best:
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When the song of the angels is stilled,
When the star in the sky is gone,
When the Kings and princes are home,
When shepherds are back with their flock,
The work of Christmas begins:
To find the lost
To heal the broken,
To feed the hungry
To release the prisoners,
To rebuild the nations,
To bring peace among all,
To make music in the heart.
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Howard Thurman
Here too a video helps to remind: