The Gift of Love
The hymn by Christina G. Rossetti, “Love came down at Christmas” uses the word “love” many times. At times it is a metaphor for Jesus and/or God; at other times human love is her focus. Read this hymn prayerfully several times.
Love came down at Christmas
Love all lovely, Love divine;
Love was born at Christmas;
star and angels gave the sign.
Worship we the Godhead,
Love incarnate, Love divine
worship we our Jesus,
but wherewith for sacred sign?
Love shall be our token;
love be yours and love be mine;
love to God and neighbor
love for plea and gift and sign.
Jesus commanded his followers to love God, to love the neighbor, and to love ourselves. How do I, can I, show love for myself? What can I do to show love for my neighbor, those who are frightened by the current political words of deportation, walls, registration, etc. What can I do to show lovingkindness to all I encounter- family, friends and strangers? What does loving God feel and look like?
Love can fashion a snowflake, delicate, lacy and light.
Love can waft the birds across the azure skies in their flight.
Love can call from heart to heart in friendships deep and strong.
Love can build a home where we each may grow to belong.
Love can transform our lives beyond earthly doubt and fear.
Love can change the hearts of all as we keep Christmas gain this year.
God is Love. [Written by Mary Jane Hartman]
Joyce D. Sohl has been Laywoman-in-Residence since 2009 as a full-time volunteer. She retired as CEO of United Methodist Women in 2004. She is the author of 4 books, a teacher, retreat leader, writer and non-professional musician. Here at the Center her work is in the area of Spirituality & the Arts with such programs as Tuesdays in the Chapel, Vespers & All That Jazz, Poet’s Corner, and quarterly retreats and art exhibits.