Originally written in December 2016, this poem was adapted to be lyrics of a hymn written in collaboration with Dave Eagles at Orleans United Church (OUC) in April 2018. Arranged by Scott Richardson, OUC’s Music Director, it was sung for the first time at OUC in June 2018.
I find solace and hope in the advent messages of hope, peace, joy and love celebrated most often at Christmas. In the busyness of living, and in the heat of so many ongoing challenges in the world and communities within which we live, such messages lift me up and enable me to be both anchored and to fly. And thus, the lyrics are intended for everyday use, beyond the celebration of Christmas and with no limits set by religion.
The words speak to my spirituality which is an essential part of my well-being. And like any element of well-being (others being physical, intellectual, emotional, social, vocational, environmental, and financial), they need attention and care. Celebration is a form of care and nurturing, and this led me to the title I gave to this poem and hymn.
Celebration
Brightening our day from wherever we are,
Hope twinkles and shines like a morning star.
Guiding the path we have chosen to take,
Hope is the beacon, keeping our spirit awake.
Contentment and serenity come from our soul,
As peace we receive, making each of us whole.
Friendship will grow in this space we all share,
And peace will be with us in trust and in prayer.
Celebrating life and helping us thrive,
Joy’s like the sun which keeps us alive.
Radiant and sparkling to all those around,
Joy gives us cause to make beautiful sound.
Source of compassion and reason to care,
Love makes the difference, if only we dare.
The greatest of gifts that completes everyone,
Love rejoices in truth, and honours the One.
We celebrate hope, as it draws us to You,
Sharing our peace with those needing it too.
Joy fills our hearts, as we sing out again,
Putting love into action in Your name,
Amen.
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