TO MAKE MUSIC IN THE HEART

Howard W. Thurman (1899 – 1981) was a prominent clergyman, theologian, educator, mystic, and civil rights leader. He wrote a number of books, including Jesus and the Disinherited, Meditations of the Heart, and Mysticism and the Experience of Love, to name a few.

One of his memorable poems, found in The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations, is fitting for the post-Christmas season, which can seem rather dull and wintery as the holy day glow fades.

          WHEN THE SONG OF THE ANGELS IS STILLED,

          WHEN THE STAR IN THE SKY IS GONE,

          WHEN THE KINGS AND PRINCES ARE HOME,

          WHEN THE SHEPHERDS ARE BACK WITH THEIR FLOCKS,

          THE WORK OF CHRISTMAS BEGINS:

          TO FIND THE LOST,

          TO HEAL THE BROKEN,

          TO FEED THE HUNGRY,

          TO RELEASE THE PRISONER,

          TO REBUILD THE NATIONS,

          TO BRING PEACE AMONG THE PEOPLE,

          TO MAKE MUSIC IN THE HEART.

May the beginning of our new year 2023 and our season of Epiphany be brighter as we embrace the work of Christmas and experience God’s music in our hearts.   

Elizabeth Gillett+