Spring 1994

Advent Now
Arleen C Russell

It's Advent, Lord!
The time of Your appearing
Is drawing nigh.
I feel a thrill!
A kind of inward cheering --
A joyous sigh.

The years are swift!
They blend into each other --
A mottled haze.
Time rushes on --
We do not love our brother;
We waste our days.

We're empty, Lord!
We are so busy getting
The husks of greed.
There is no time
To spend in deep regretting.
We have no need.

We push and shove!
We must keep pace or perish!
We have out pride.
We dare not stop!
We need more things to cherish --
We're sick inside.

Our ears are dull,
We hear no angels singing
From heavenly spheres;
We must dash on --
Our moments wildly flinging.
Then reap in tears.

I've had enough!
I'm weary of confusion --
Earth's subtle lie.
You are my need --
A blessed, sweet seclusion --
Just You and I.

You are no babe!
Your cradle no more holds You.
The stable's bare!
I won't go back
No swaddling cloth enfolds You.
You are not there!
I shall look up.
Your star is rising higher
In our dark sky.
The signs grow clear!
Wise men do still inquire;
The blind pass by.

I'm listening, Lord!
Your steps draw swiftly nearer --
Not as before.
Now, King of Kings!
And Saviour - so much dearer!
I love You more.

I'm waiting, Lord,
In quiet expectation
For Your return,
While nations reel
Without an explanation,
And stout hearts yearn.

Come quietly --!
Come with Your trumpet sounding!
When time is right,
And call Your own
'Mid joy and praise resounding,
Into Your light!