Advent 2025: RSVPs
I’ll be posting your RSVPs to this year’s Advent series here! Thanks so much!
RSVPs
Third Week
I was so encouraged to open your email today and read the verse from Luke 2 verse 10 that starts with the words ‘Fear not …’ – I had created this simple card yesterday and chose to put those words in the centre of my card. Jane S
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This is a glorious version of Benedictus by Karl Jenkins.
David M
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My Horizon
When I feel weighed down
“Look up!” I remember – see
The world opening out.
Michaela T
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Here’s a poem I actually wrote in response to your recent Autumn series but it incorporates HUSH so I was reminded of it. Today’s reflection about horizons, boundaries and coming home made me think of how in this poem we keep looking beyond even as we fall and rest in the hush.
Everything is Falling
Look above the earth
Tawny forest rug rumpled
Thick knitted with beech
Soft crocheted cashmere
Down come the leaves
Everything is falling
Look above the trees
Delft blue bowl of brittle sky
Cracked veins rimmed sharp bright
Jagged wind torn clouds
Down comes the light
Everything is falling
Look above the sky
Sinking sun lowers and dims
Cobalt scatters, dusts
Dark indigo dreams
Down comes the dusk
Everything is falling
Rest in this deep hush
Lie with the leaves
Wrapped in their warmth
Blanketed in the night
When the cushioned clouds crumple
I’ll see the stars through smoke fired wisps
And know that when everything is falling
I can fall too
Caroline B
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Thank you for your wonderful advent HUSH series.
HUSH – Be Still – Stunned
Heaven declares your glory!
God’s dance to behold!
My wife and I experienced a thin place, sacred earth – humbled after watching the Northern Lights in Finland a month ago, hope-filled and sense of the divine above, around and in us. I love how Jupiter lights up the top of the fir tree, with a shaft of northern lights! Neil KB
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My RSVP is this photo from the other morning – I was about to come into the house after some exercise on the cross trainer in the garage, and saw the dawn rising behind our home, the moon and stars above and the warm glow of home – love calling me home.
Pete F
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On the edge I see eternity on the horizon.
On the edge I touch the mystery as I rest in your embrace.
On the edge I hear your silent whisper, as you wipe away my tears, and I am fully known.
Di W
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After reading ‘rippling love’ on a rainy and dim dawn last week, it took me back to a few days before, when I braved the public swimming pool with three boys! The pool was surprisingly quiet for a rainy weekend and towards the end of the session my toddler and I were the only ones left in the small pool. The water settled and it was flat and glassy – so calm. I showed him how to make ripples by pushing my hands back and forth, and we watched as the ripples bobbed all the way to the other side of the pool.
The following morning there was a break in the rain and my youngest son chose his wellies to stomp through puddles in the park. When the ripples settled, we could see the reflections of the moody sky above and the detail of bare tree branches – reminding me that beauty breaks into the ordinary muddy puddles of life.
As I dodged yet more puddles today, I thought on these two, ordinary yet extraordinary moments and realised that as we still ourselves before God, his image in us begins to appear, as a reflection. And as we go out into the world, our movement creates ripples of love that reach outward, to the corners and edges of our communities. May we reflect and ripple God’s love this Advent and beyond. Ellie
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Thank you SO much for this treasure packed Advent journey, it’s been a blessing beyond measure. I’ve been like a kid with an Advent calendar, not being able to wait to see what’s ‘behind the door’ each day and discovering a gorgeous gift each time.
I’ve been using the ‘Hush, be still’ prayer a lot and have passed it on to friends in stressful pressured situations at this time. Jane B
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I glimpsed this waiting crib through the glass doors of a city centre church. It has the sense of ‘hush’ about it in the midst of all the busyness in the streets around. And the ‘welcome’ reminds me of your ‘horizon’ too.
Susan D
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Ever since I read your first email with the title of this Advent series I have been unable to shift this thought, or mental picture, from my mind.
I’m standing in that smelly, noisy, gloomy stable in Bethlehem. There had been the agony screams of childbirth, now there was a multitude of different sounds. Cattle lowing, chewing the cud, a donkey braying, shepherds pushing and shoving to get a better look, the sheep that had followed them bleating. A father looking anxious and some how, somewhere, the sense of an angel overseeing the whole event; but the in the centre of all this sits a young mother. There, fear of birth is past, she has eyes for no one other than the tiny baby in her arms. None of the noise, or other people disturb her as she whispers the Hush of a lullaby into the tiny ears. Here is God being soothed by a hushed voice, so I then have to ask: Am I open to hearing God’s words of Hush in the turmoil of the here and now? To rest in that centre of stillness in the midst so much noise and clamour.
Maybe if God is my horizon then the answer is I’m getting there and still trying. Gay H
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While walking the dog I noticed one apple tree in an orchard that was clearly reluctant to let go of its autumn crop – a beautiful, solitary leafless Advent tree full of fruit – a mystery.
Richard L
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My creative juices haven’t flowed as readily this Advent. Creativity will return, I’m sure. But for now, as the winter solstice draws close, I rest in Wendell Berry’s beautiful poem, “To Know the Dark” –
To go in the dark with a light is to know the light.
To know the dark, go dark. Go without sight.
And find that the dark, too, blooms and sings,
And is travelled by dark feet and dark wings.
Printed in Wendell Berry, “The Peace of Wild Things” (Penguin, 2018)
Thank you for another wonderful series Brian. Your reflections are such a blessing. Janet N
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As usual I have been too busy and it is late and this is not doing justice at all to all your wonderful reflections – but I’d like to send something to show my great appreciation for all the love and thought you put into our daily emails. It really has to be read from the bottom up! Jan B
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A photo of the recent full moon – the horizon over the Lavant Road Chichester. An one of my favourite quotes:
‘Earth is so thick with divine possibility that it is a wonder we can walk anywhere without cracking our shins on altars.’ Barbara Brown Taylor: An Altar in the World
Elaine Collins
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Well over 2000 years now … dancing through the 12 hours in a day, through the 12 days of Christmas, through 12 months of the year. 12 around the one being a symbol of wholeness. (12 disciples around Christ), and with it the 8 compass points. East for Sunrise – South for midday – West for sunset and North for midnight. Midnight Son/Sun – Eastern Star – Baptist Fire and Soul gatherings – the dance of Eternity in time, Birthing the infinite in the finite. Blessings be. Warmly, Ann B
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Day 9 – The hush within – focussing on a peace lily
Day 10 – Taking a slow walk at Tyntesfield, focussing on the here and now
Day 11 – Carol Service – Mystery – Advent Wreath at church
Day 12 – Another Tuesday, another amazing sunset.
Day 13 – Communion at home with my small group, keeping silence together
Sarah Y
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Hello everybody, and thank you, Brian, for another inspiring week of reflections – and all these amazing links and RSVPs! – and, indeed, for the whole series. I loved the link to “I Wonder as I Wander” – so beautiful. Here are some of this week’s journal pages. l wish you all the blessings of Christmas, and peace and joy in 2026. Much love to all, Hazel R.
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Yes! I knew I would need bigger horizons this Advent. The sea is too far, so I set out to visit a river, every day if I could. It takes effort, but the discoveries are wondrous. During half-time in my son’s football match last Sunday, I found this – a way to get right down to the waterside with the ducks and imagine the city away. I’ve passed that spot hundreds of times before. Ruth M
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I painted this picture many years ago but felt it was relevant again now when thinking about the Advent horizon. I love being by the sea and sense such a presence of God and his peace.
It was only after I painted it I noticed that marks I had made appeared to look like angels in the sky! What started as something quite straightforward, became an explosion of colour.
If we stop and wonder … Judith H
Judith H
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from the Liturgy of St James, 5th century:
‘ Let all mortal flesh keep silent . . . .
As the Light of Life descendeth
From the realms of endless day ‘
The Hush Gap
Between the neighbouring houses
I watch as the winter sun
begins to paint the skies
and through the trees’ essential shape
strung on high cables
necklaces of Starlings balance
in silence and await the dawn
Jo G
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I have been struck by the reminder to fix my eyes on Jesus this advent and embrace the mystery of not knowing what will happen next. Jane H
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‘Hush, be still. Here I am’ has been so helpful. What a great idea to do this as a way to prepare ourselves to give people we meet our full attention with Presence, even in a busy cafe as we wait to be served. It’s something I aim to keep doing. Have a joyful Christmas,
Bob L
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I loved the idea of an advent tree suggested previously- this is my gift-thought for today, from Rob Bell’s video. Sue Con
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This Advent, I have given birth to a new creative project. From the first yes (teach the Christmas story to Sunday school), many other yeses followed – some unexpected (I was asked to take the nativity to our local youth club and to set it up as a preaching aid for our carol service this coming Sunday). With each step I took, more was revealed.
I wonder whether Mary would have had a similar experience, with her first yes leading to other yeses she could not have foreseen when she first said “I am the Lord’s servant…”
The accompanying resources I have created for this project (Booklet with further info; concertina booklet worksheets with and without my commentary) can be downloaded for free at www.ko-fi.com/susanneirving/shop
Every blessing to the community this Christmas and beyond, Susanne I
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What a week of lovely music and touching thoughts.
I have two favourite horizons: North of Copenhagen staring across the Sound to Sweden , and the other on the Danish westcoast looking at the North Sea – . Last time I was there the starlings performed their magical and divine dance. Katja B
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Thank you for this beautiful, reverent offering for Advent, it really is/has been a sacred space.
I have been collecting versions of Silent Night – to play, share, use in reflection. This year’s version (arr. by Alastair King) is particularly spacious and calming – Hush. Now when sharing I am even more mindful of what we are ushering in – a peace – possible amidst the tumult of wars both within and without. We will be performing this year’s version at a Blue Christmas Service for those struggling particularly with grief. Hush – I will not fear this night Divine.
Alastair’s version is not in the public domain so I offer another favourite arranged by Ola Gjeilo. https://youtu.be/I4DiWZs6puE?si=wV7ZFHxU3oE4bg4H
Thanks again. Valerie.
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My physical horizons are somewhat limited but this Advent Star, sent to me by a very dear German friend, brings limitless horizons of joy, hope, peace and love. With love and thanks Brian for this Advent series, Tricia U x
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Thank you Brian for this wonderful Advent Series. It has been so inspiring and it has sparked a renewal of faith for me. My contribution is not a direct response to your daily posts this week but it is ‘Christmassy’. The image and poem are a gentle prompt to remember who the real Gift Giver is and how many blessings He showers upon us.
Jane F
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Today, I am feeling very grateful and blessed. The day is foul but my joy is undimmed. After a very difficult two years with a family member with severe mental health issues, we see a glimmer of hope. Light shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it. Fiona T
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Wishing you and the community a joyous Christmas. My final thoughts:
Advent,
as the first advent:
a time of waiting.
Few recognised the baby
as Saviour, when he came.
This advent,
may we seek God
in the unexpected places.
Jenny H
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The sunrises up here have been spectacular – easy to be lost. In ‘wonder awe and praise.’ And because they have been so arresting I have been gazing at them, losing track of time and arriving a little late, at where I am meant to be!!
Dorinda M
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A contributor on Sunday Worship last Sunday featuring Jane Austen and her prayers said “Her life emerged from her faith.” I feel through your ‘Hush’ series we have gently bypassed ourselves to live out of this deep divinity “our soul’s / God’s life and love deep within each of us.”
We so rarely give ourselves this “holy experience“ to grow in joy, holy wisdom and to know how deeply God loves and is faithful to His precious human race.
You have given us a true and profound Christmas gift. Thank you. With every blessing and the joy and glory of the Shepherds. Caroline H
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I’m blessed to have a view out to sea and the far horizon just 5 minutes walk from my home, so today’s reflection really resonated. But what struck me most was your observation, “In our smallness, we are truly magnified.” Yes! (Things that are large don’t need to be magnified!) And it reminded me of this image, which I composed a few years back…
Phil S
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I will not fear the night divine.
Treasures of darkness.
Katherine C
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Negative Capability
I’m realising some of the benefits of the “spiritual discipline” of moving to a country where I can’t speak the language.
Of course, in the Netherlands, most people can speak good English. And I have made quite a lot of progress with Dutch; but there have been many occasions when I have not had a clue what was going on; and many more when I have felt like the six year old among adults. It’s very good for the soul to have to “sit on the edge”.
My partner is Dutch and we laugh a lot at the misunderstandings that inevitably occur.
But there is also a big advantage of my “negative capability” – if I hear something from my partner, which seems harsh or negative I instinctively assume that I have misunderstood. I don’t react to what I thought I heard because I am almost certain that that is not what was meant.
And that buys time, and in explaining what she did mean, the situation is deescalated.
“I’m a bit dim, I don’t understand“ or “sorry, I’m only English and I’m struggling to understand“ are very useful comments in building relationship here in the Netherlands. And I earn respect, simply because I try!
At the same time, it’s really great to belong to this advent (English-speaking) community.
Thanks to everyone!
Mick L
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I read today’s email this morning on the train on the way to Nice. Here I am, sitting way above the city. I’ve just said the Compass prayer looking out over the sea to the South, a mass of red rooves to the west, and mountains to the east. Prayed with an old tree. Enjoying the horizon. Feeling calm and very blessed. Jenny M
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I just came back from “my bench” on the heath close to my home.
Almost everyday I sit there for some 20 minutes, thanking God that I may enter Creation’s sanctuary and offer Him my thoughts and prayers.
Before following the HUSH-series I called this bench my “prayer-enjoy-contemplate-bench”, but “Hush be still – Here I am – bench” is even better. After reading your suggestion in day 5 of the series, I befriended the tree in front of me, as a kind of rosary and company in prayer.
Thank you so much for guiding us this Advent! Rietje B
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Here I am.
Isabel K
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A hush like the snowfall
Fell on me like Peace
As I saw in my mind’s eye
The star in the east
I saw the full moon
In the 4 o’clock sky
Pink, grey and yellow
Of the clouds drifting by
I thought of the Magi
And of our Advent dreams
As we look to the heavens
When all’s not as it seems
To be lit from within
Is a gift from our Lord
So let’s value creation
And applaud and applaud.
Meg M, Anglesey
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Inspired by some of the reflections, I have written a short poem:
Loss and Hope
So much loss,
Stripped back to the core.
What might I find in the deep?
God the rock is there, at my centre.
I am held by my woven mesh
Of kindness and compassion.
I am reminded that there is only grief
because love came first.
I make my peace with what I cannot control.
The luminosity of my soul shines on
And no darkness can extinguish its light.
Love, Caroline C
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Lindisfarne is my favourite thin place. The work of Island artist, Mary Fleeson, influences my amateur, but mindful, attempts to draw informal Celtic knotwork. This was from 2015. It came to mind during ‘Hush’ – this wonderful Advent series. Thank you so much Brian and community.
The wording is: Not one of us is perfect but even from a bent wick the flame burns straight and strong.
When we become aware of the Breath of God within our own hearts and souls our broken lives will be made whole and our true selves will shine out!
Gill K
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I was blessed by a glorious sunset unfolding on Tuesday after a draining day, through a dirty, foggy train window. I wanted a ‘perfect’ photo but could only capture this. Then today I read your words, ‘a blurry figure coming into focus’ and it encapsulated what hope is – to keep looking for the horizon, even though the window might be less than perfect!
Rachel T
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Oh, the mystery of it all.
I wonder as I wander…
Jo M
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Do you know this version of ‘I Wonder as I Wander’ by Simon Khorolsky? Very different. He has some amazing music! Pat E
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I opened the door of the country cottage to a mother and young daughter, perhaps 5-6 years old. Indoors, Mum explained that when they rented this cottage, the baby was born at home and the placenta placed at the root of a young tree to mark the occasion. Now she wanted to transplant the sapling to their present garden.
As we stood by the tree discussing the removal, we were transfixed by beautiful music. We stood back in awe and reverence as her daughter sang sweetly to her tree! Freda R
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A huge thank you Brian for this series – so much food for thought and words to reflect on this season. I have been very taken with your interview with John Philip Newell and also the wonderful truth that every human being emits bioluminescent light. It reminds me of the words in John’s gospel, “He is the true light that lights everyone coming into the world.” I hope I will be able to view EVERYONE I meet in that new “light” from now on.
It reminded me too of the “Ready Brek” advert! Paula S
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I had a little awakening this week. While out with our community litter picking group I spotted these pretty blue flowers peeping shyly out from the bottom of a hedge. Such a delicate thing, a pop of colour in the monochrome of a winter morning. A shot of natural beauty among the discarded human detritus of beer bottles and sandwich boxes. I was thankful for this small gift and the ability to be present to it.
Blessings, Hilary R
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This is an art journal response to yesterday’s reflection, which caused me to abandon my ‘to do’ list and reflect deeply on two phrases:
a) “your prayer has been heard”
b) “you will be silent”
The first reassures me that all our prayers and deepest desires are known to God, and it links with Rev. 8.4. The second was interesting. I lost my voice for two weeks a few years back having Covid, and it was a forced opportunity to listen intentionally to others, to God, to myself in a much deeper way. It felt like a personal silent retreat. I missed singing most of all, but found I could worship silently. Annie PP
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Here’s a poem I wrote on 12 December:
i saw today
how fiercely you long for me
like the deep grief
consumes me for those i love
but cannot see
you see me
always: my hiding from you
cuts much deeper
than the involuntary
cloak of death
i desire to see you
to live in community
with you
to behold your face
and be held by you
Ann S
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I love ABC: AWAKEN! BEHOLD! CREATE!
With a week until Christmas Day, I’m awakening more to the beauty, and the mystery, of You, Lord, and Your coming into the world as a baby. I’m beholding who You are, and Your infinite love, joy and peace. And may this coming time be one of extraordinary creativity, as we enter a new year. There’s uncertainty around us, but You are with us, whatever we face. I am so thankful, and excited about where You will lead us. Simon M
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A few more thoughts added to my artwork, and a drop of unintended tea! 🤭 Isn’t that the reality though? Our mistakes and blunders become part of God’s picture. ❤️🙏🏻 Fiona G
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I designed my Christmas card with a Hush moment in mind. Amid the darkness of what is going on in our world right now, there is that moment of hushed awe as Christ enters our humanity. A moment of stillness before the world crashes in again, but it is a changed and charged world because LOVE has entered and the darkness can never be the same; it is infused with Christ Light that can never be extinguished. If this is not a moment of WONDER …
One more hush moment if I may … On Monday I walked through an alleyway in the local precinct and I saw, in a shop window, a beautiful Nativity scene. I stood amazed and awed because this shop is run by Muslims. (At this point there were no other shops displaying the real meaning for Christmas!) I simply had to go inside and to say thank you, that I had been blessed by this.
The man behind the shop counter put his hand on his heart and said that my thank you blessed him! Sharing the Love!
My heartfelt thanks to you and the community for yet another wisdom packed Advent. I feel we are all blessed. Celia J
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Thank you for your treasure trove! And thanks, too, to the community who share in RSVPs – especially the stunning art and photography.
Hushhh
Utter nothing
Savour God’s presence
His prace, love, joy
Jane M
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Sometimes I have no words. Just awe and wonder.
With love to you and the beautiful community that gathers in the space you create. With love, Sue H
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The poet Luci Shaw died on 1st December. This podcast conversation continues to resonate in me.
Ep. 74 – Luci Shaw – The Crime Of Cautious Living – Family 360 Podcast
This poem arrived as I read your words this morning: I have met many people who feel trapped, safer when constrained, but some, like Luci Shaw, are always roaming.
There, a horizon.
For some a wall closing in;
“I can’t go beyond”
An invitation
for others: “Come and explore
the next horizon”
Jonathan R
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understanding and reason have short wings
yours, Gary S
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I too often have a yearning to look out to sea – I love to feel God’s power as the waves meet the shore.
I took this photo on Tuesday afternoon just as the light was fading – I just happened to look out of the kitchen window and saw the beautiful red sky through the majestic beech tree. In a fleeting moment it was gone but I treasured that gift of beauty painted by God illustrating his awesome power. Hush, be still.
Thank you for this week- so much to ponder in our hearts. Susan L
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Today’s reflection took me back to a poem I wrote a while ago. Here it is.
The Boundary and the Horizon
The boundary says KEEP OUT
The horizon says WELCOME
The boundary says NO FURTHER
The horizon says EXPLORE
The boundary says STOP
The horizon says COME
The boundary IMPRISONS
The horizon EXPANDS
The boundary LIMITS
The horizon is LIMITLESS
The boundary SUBDUES
The horizon ENCOURAGES
Look up! Look out!
A new day is dawning.
Step over, break through,
Walk into the morning.
Karen L
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I’ve recently been quite captivated by some short videos on Facebook of amazing, tiny microscopic creatures captured by James Weiss on his page Jam’s Germs.
I was amazed by these beautiful grains of sand and the teeming life that is usually invisible to us – your line from Blake reminded me of this
And the incredible tardigrades which I find fascinating.
Every blessing, Rachel W
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My “thin place”- Dingly Dell, Sheldon Retreat, in the peace of this beautiful quiet, peaceful, place I pray & look at the small St Francis statue with my “gifts”. Glenda L
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What a wonderful series this has been – thank you! Here’s my small offering. I found your ABC post particularly helpful:
Hush, be still
Here I am
Hush, be still
Awaken to your presence
Hush, be still
Behold your glory and creation
Hush, be still
Create to worship You
Hush, be still
Hear my still small voice
Blessings, Jeanette P
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Here is my offering, thinking about how Simeon knew he was holding the Messiah in his arms – a baby who would change everything.
Thank you so much for these Advent reflections and for drawing this special community together once more. Jane S
Second Week
The image is from our Christingle service last week; lighting candles never fails to touch my spirit whether in our gathering or in our home. Here’s my haiku inspired by your reflection today:-
Haiku
Awaken, Behold
The candle Creates your light
In my eager heart.
Meg M
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Jo M
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Here are my responses this week:
Day Five – The light of the world by moonlight
Day Six – Q for quiet – making a wreath for the door
Day Seven – Rippling love reflected in the sky at sunset on Tuesday
Day Eight – Apricity – light through the tree on Wednesday lunchtime
Thank you for your rich reflections as always. I’ve been carrying a tiny white pebble in my pocket which reminds, me when I feel it, to pause and be aware of God and also pause to listen to my colleagues and friends more.
Love, Sarah Y
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I wanted to let you know about The Sunday Letter Project. It was set up by a small stationery shop – attempting to rekindle the lost art of letter writing. As someone who wrote endless letters to friends during my teens, it caught my imagination immediately. Very simply, you pledge to write one handwritten letter a week. I’m finding it so nostalgic.
I’ve written to a mixture of people – sometimes to newer friends, but mostly to old friends with whom I used to exchange long, rambling letters full of secrets and stories during my teens. My friends have been delighted to receive them (though they tell me this by WhatsApp!). Clare O’D
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The Iona Reminder
This is not the past.
Do not live there.
Let the voices go.
Do not cling to what is gone.
This is not the future.
You are not there yet.
Let the worries be.
Do not live where you are not.
This is here and now.
This is all you have.
Do not miss where you are …
Coral S
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Something which has helped me hush and be still recently is this piece of music, a setting of words by Thomas Aquinas, to be used in adoration of the Eucharist.
It is divine. It is called “O salutaris hostia.”
In English the words are
O saving Victim, opening wide,
The gate of heaven to man below;
Our foes press on from every side;
Thine aid supply, Thy strength bestow.
To Thy great Name be endless praise,
Immortal Godhead, One in Three;
O, grant us endless length of days,
In our true native land with Thee.
It speaks to me. And I am still, hushed in awe.
David M
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I was reminded of some words written by a Salvation Army poet. I don’t suppose the concept of the feminine divine was in the poets mind when writing this, but is often to the fore for me.
His (Her) Kingdom cometh not by force
But, by the gentle power
Of righteousness and truth and grace,
(S)He triumphs every hour.
Catherine Baird
God’s kingdom, possibly Kindom – reigning over politics, tribalism, ego, nationhood etc – in fact any space or place where ‘othering’ occurs.
I’ll be looking for those glimpses of grace over the coming days
Jan T
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After a busy day I am too late to send the creative response I had in mind! But just to say I have always loved that story of the Christmas Eve truce during WW1. And thank you -I had not read the beautiful Carol Ann Duffy poem before. Around us there are so many little ripples and glimmers of light and hope each day… if only the same thing could happen between the young Ukrainian and Russian soldiers, both fervently believing they are striving for the best for their country. Come down, O Love divine. Thank you as always. Love, Jan B
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After my weekly swim at the lake, two photos taken within seconds of each other, but in opposite directions – one of the moon setting and one of the sun rising above the trees. I then listened to the interview with John Philip Newell, and he talked about being under the moonlight and in the sunlight and how we need both. A soulful, sacred moment before starting the busy work day. Nicki W
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Today I’ve had a SELAH day which has been much needed. Been in the company of St Clare of Assisi, researching for an assignment due in soon. And been heartened by the slow and steady stance she took in life. Granted, for a medieval nun, that would have looked a lot different to life as we know it now, but still, still, that desire to be still is still there. A longing to enter “the holy hush”, the sacred pause. To live from a place of rest. And not get so caught up in all the activity around. To remember to go slow, listen and quietly revel in these days of Adventuring.
A poem from a previous time and place (Phnom Penh, Cambodia) but still, apt for now:
Time now to drop off the plate of activity
That’s set me spinning above the surface of this land
And walk, slowly, feeling the soil beneath my feet.
All that’s fuelled the way so far has dissipated
And bright lights have come down to earth,
Gathered in one small steady flame.
Now as I settle into this season of quiet surrender
May the soul of this place speak, and its stories
Find words to rest upon, and rise.
Fiona P
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Christmas 1914 lesson: Even a battlefield can become a thin place:
May the veil be torn in places like Gaza and the Ukraine, not just for a fleeting moment but for good. Susanne I
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Borrowing from Bill Plotkin – quelling the flames of fear, anxiety and despair with the healing balm of love, peace and deep hope. Allowing our egos to ‘stand down’ and rest. Elaine Collins
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Here is an instrumental version of O come, O come Emmanuel that came my way last week. As I listened to it standing in my kitchen, looking out of the window, it transformed my day.
May it change yours! Miriam M
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Hello Brian. Thanks as ever. My offering:
Peace.
Rushing around,
One more job before I stop …
Yet, if I do but pause,
hush,
and allow Peace to enter,
she will seep deep
into my very soul.
Peace, patiently
Awaiting my invitation.
Cheers, Jenny H
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The view out my window – the hush of winter. Wishing you and the community many Advent blessings, Nancy-in-Canada : )
Off a laneway from Grafton Street, St Teresa’s Carmelite Church is an oasis of Hush, a haven of peace, silence, welcome, Presence. Every day, myriads of people drop in to this Dublin city centre church to be enveloped, calmed, reassured, forgiven, nourished in the gentleness of the Hush. Shrines blaze with hundreds of candles which have been lit by hushed hands of prayer, petition, thanksgiving, hope. A homeless man clings to a heater, a young mother presents her baby, a student from nearby Trinity College prays for guidance and knowledge, an elderly lady fingers her beads. In the precious Hush, He says: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Hush! Hush! Have you heard his silent steps? He comes, comes, ever comes. Hush! Vincent M
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This lit up labyrinth hangs on the hospice wall where I work.
My offering to the Hush community;
In this sacred place
of fierce liminality
sorrow and love fall
We journey aglow
as phosphorescent travellers
bringing our hushed lives
Jojo
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Last night I finished this advent ‘faith/art journal page, and I’m struck again by the coincidence of your mentioning this morning the exact same words from that carol – ‘It came upon a midnight clear’. This page is attempting to illustrate the journey we are making steadily, hopefully, trustingly towards our final destination. The city is symbolic of the ‘new Jerusalem‘ (Revelation 21) the ultimate dwelling place of God with humanity. Annie PP
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Two of my ‘Hush Moments’ haiku’s from this past week:
A seed on the breeze
humming secrets of beauty.
My soul soars with it!
Old Man’s beard, sun kissed
radiates an inner glow
God’s wonder-full gift!
Thanks to you and the community for the gift of sharing.
Blessings. Celia J
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Yesterday’s reflection had much to ponder, including the idea that change happens at the edges. It reminded me of Malachi 4.12, “the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays”.
‘Rays’ is sometimes translated as ‘wings’ and apparently this word has the sense of ‘fringes’, as in the edge of a garment. This in turn reminds me of the healing of the woman with severe bleeding “if I only touch his cloak, I will be healed”. Change … at the edges … “Light and life to all He brings; risen with healing in His wings”. Marian M
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Hush
When I quiet down
And listen – I – mean – really –
Listen… I hear peace.
Michaela T
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We received the sad news this week that my brother’s cancer is more widespread than hoped. It will be palliative rather than curative care. I wrote this Haiku as I grieved the news.
How precious when, in
the Hush, we encounter Divine love
and know we are held.
Marian C
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My life has been transformed by the birth of my granddaughter in July, so she is the focus of my Advent haiku:
Baby Beatrice,
Bringer of joy and healing,
With us this Christmas.
Many thanks for the inspiring, beautiful series. Sarah B
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I came into a back room in my home – to the play of light and dark as a unity dance. They lit upon this flower drawing in my attention — as presence to Presence. I am here.
Hush now, be still
I AM here –
Present in
the everyday nativity.
Ann / Wild Soul
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Jo M
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Early in November I had the gift of visiting my son’s favourite forest “in the whole world” with him, near Aviemore. His job takes him around the world, visiting forests. As mother and son we obviously share DNA and how much more of a delight was it and it is to know we share God’s DNA in each other but also with those huge, ancient, beautiful trees! Thank you for reminding me. Jo dG
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Thank you for the talk with John Philip Newell! As a Cornish woman, I share his Celtic spirituality snd found inspiration when I visited Iona for a day with my family. Last year my grandaughter wild-camped on Iona, and went to a service in the abbey. She found it an inspiring thin place. Love , Gill W
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Today I paused in my ‘thin place’ to receive: ‘Thank you and well done. You can stand down and make peace with stopping.’
The picture is the beautiful place where I stopped. Ceinwen M
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I’ve enjoyed sharing the Breath Prayers in a secular Tai Chi Shibashi class that meets in our Church hall, as breathing meditations. The feedback was positive! Words were separated out as follows:
(A) Inbreath : Here
Outbreath : I am.
(B) Inbreath : Hush
Outbreath : Don’t rush
(C) Inbreath: Be
Outbreath : Still
We used it again last night in an online Christian meditation group and enjoyed the simplicity of 1 or 2 words and several minutes of silence with each breath prayer.
Thank you for helping us rediscover simplicity in prayer. Bev W
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What a beautiful week of reflections – and I especially loved the interview with John Philip Newell. Thank you so much for that. Here’s a collage of my journal pages for the week, with love to all. Hazel R
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Yesterday, at the ‘Walking With Giants’ installation at Fort Nelson, I was brought to silent prayer. Walking, with many other people, among these black figures, all with heads bowed, there was Hush, so totally different from that which would have been experienced on the battlefield.
Amazingly your meditation this morning picks up on the “Christmas Truce”, as if to underline my experience yesterday. Wow! Gay H
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Your words today and the armistice sound piece moved me deeply; l wrote this poem.
How long must we wait for peace?
Too long, we need it now.
Why does God not act
And fulfil the promised vow?
Not long to wait for peace:
A new heaven, a new earth.
No more struggle, no more pain.
It began with a birth.
An armistice for creation,
A cure for every ill.
Connection and communion,
Love overflowing still.
We wait, but not in silence:
Hope shapes what we pursue.
Patience and preparation,
The work you taught us to do.
When all is said and over,
We have not earned our place.
But by your grace and mercy,
In paradise we see your face.
God bless, Paul B
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A very short story: last week my 22 month-old grand-daughter Eliza learned how to kick a football at the park with her Mum.
She was so pleased with herself that, on the way home from the park, she insisted that her Mum stop the car so that she could tell the MOON about it.
WOW! I can’t tell you how deeply Eliza’s story touched me, especially in a week of bright moons and the encouragement to seek kindred spirits in creation. Chris M
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I wrote this on Monday morning after our Sunday Christingle service:-
Road still closed,
‘Hush be still’
Church inaccessible
‘Hush be still’
Will they find the church?
‘Hush be still’
And they came,
‘Hush be still’
Smiling faces and hope-filled children
‘Hush be still’
I was there with my love
Pouring into waiting lives
Who need to know
‘Hush be still’
Tonight.
Thank you for another calming and soulful series. With my love, Freda S
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Thank you for the interview with John Philip Newell! I sat yesterday in the twilight and listened to it while focussing on my favourite tree in our garden … ”Hush, Be Still” … it seemed to say as it stood motionless & illuminated in the light. Sue W
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Thank you so much Brian for this truly special Advent Series. You’ve inspired us all to be more conscious of the beauty of the moon, so here’s my tribute to this heavenly body, along with an etching I did years ago, which I called ‘Heavenly Bodies’.
The light of the moon
gently whispers “Hush, be still,
my light is yours too”
Jane F
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In the spirit of the Christmas truce in 1914 , wasn’t it apt that Maria Corina Machado was honoured with the Nobel Peace Prize last night in Oslo? Her daughter receiving it on her behalf and she later making it against all odds from Venezuela to Oslo in the middle of the night – a light shining in the dark. Katja B
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This is my healing place, where I walk every morning, now just 18 months since losing my beloved husband. And my almost haiku:
Cross the cattle grid
And oh! What beauty greets us!
“Be still, here I am”.
(‘Us’ is me and my white retriever, Winnie.) Jane L
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Now and not yet
Mystery of grace abounds
How perfect our hope
Anticipation
Advent, the time from hush to
Christ’s birth. Now rejoice.
Elaine N
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Norwich cathedral, last weekend – ‘Hush / be still / Here / I am’ … Phil S
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I found this quote from Arvo Pärt as I listened to Arvo Pärt’s ‘Da pacem Domine’ (‘Give peace, Lord‘).
‘You cannot direct the wind – but you can adjust your sail.‘ ~ Arvo Pärt.
You did that vey well in response to the noise! Ciaran M
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I absolutely love the idea or rippling connectedness! Thomas Merton knew it so profoundly at the corner of a busy street!
Liz H
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Thank you for reminding me of the stunning Armistice Soundwave and also the Christmas Day game of football.
May I add to the mix one of my favourite songs from the ’90s by the The Farm called ‘All Together Now (In No Man’s Land)’, a pop lament (based on the chord progression of Pachelbel’s Canon, no less) on the football match, with the particularly moving line:
‘A spirit stronger than war was at work that night.’
I then opened the curtains to this sunrise …
Rachel T
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Thank you for this week’s reflections. I was in tears reading and listening to today’s. In a good way! I’m definitely going to try thanking and standing down my battling ego when it keeps me awake at night fighting old battles!
Here’s a haiku as RSVP:
Hush, be still, stand down,
Thou good and faithful servant,
Work finished, now rest.
PS I want to go to Iona! Mandy C
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Here’s a short poem which tries to capture my Advent journey so far. It feels almost on two levels overlaid; the Advent message itself and my cancer surgery marking the start of treatment.
Humbled by love,
Upheld in prayer,
Supported with kindness,
Healing journey commenced.
Every blessing, Sally S
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Just a grain of salt,
Is that enough for flavour?
Without it there’s none.
Just NaCl
Perhaps enough for fullness
Without Him empty
I have written a longer poem about salt. These lines arrived as I reflected on your post. Thank you very much. Jonathan R
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I’m glad I wrote this RSVP earlier, before I read your email; it gifted me one of those moments of ‘Oh – this really is God, speaking!’ (then I changed the title). Now, I am going to listen to the Sound Armistice before I begin my day’s work. THANK YOU! Ruth M
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O Lord, here we are –
Waiting. Anticipation.
Open. Still. You’re here!!
Simon M
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On Monday I walked through the park, and remembered how in previous times you told us to have a go at praying with a tree. To be honest I felt this a bit ‘out there’. But decided to give it a go! I chose a tree out of the way with a bench beside it and had a go. It was amazing! Here are my thoughts, not really a poem but I put it in verses to make it an easier read. (I was so pleased to read Wednesday’s reflections with John Philip Newell. Thank you.)
FIRST TIME
Sitting beside a tree
Reaching out and touching its trunk
The strength and steadfast power
Resonated with me
Its roots going deep
Intertwining with fellow trees
Lifting my eyes to the heavens
I see the branches reaching high
Swaying in the wind, praising God
I start to pray with the tree
Lifting my arms and praising God
Losing myself in the awe inspiring moment
My spirit becomes alive.
As a bubbling river flows within
as joy explodes with shouts of praise
I feel alive in God in unison with creation
One with creation, I thank God, I turn;
I thank the tree for our shared togetherness.
Thank you. Georgina B
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I wrote this on Monday:
Da pacem Domine
In the dark places
Where wind howls
And fears are heightened
Da pacem Domine
In the rubbled ruins
Where hope seems lost
And home is a memory
Da pacem Domine
On the treacherous flight
Where future is uncertain
And return is impossible
Da pacem Domine
In the outstretched hand
Where love is in action
And welcome is everything.
Da pacem Domine.
Miserere Domine.
Karen L
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Each morning I awaken in the winter darkness with anticipation. I light a candle and sit quietly in the sanctuary of my art studio, which transforms into a sacred space as I savour the silence. I breathe deep and read your reflection. Thank you for the gift of it and the beautiful connection it creates with so many others who meet the morning in the same way. A short poem in response:
This is the day the Lord has made,
I will …
Run into the open arms of it,
Pausing often to feel the gentle pull of its embrace.
With love, Sue H
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So far …
loving the HUSH 🤫❤️ Fiona G
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I am loving the Advent journey with you – as always. In case you haven’t come across it, you might like a Christmas album from my old college. I access it via Apple music but here is the description: https://signumrecords.com/product/a-pembroke-christmas/SIGCD724/
Tim H
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My offering:
Hush! What do I hear?
A deep whisper of His voice
Here I am with you.
Susan L
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On a walk yesterday afternoon I was bemoaning the fact that it is now starting to get dark at 3pm when suddenly a flash of neon blue caught my eye. A kingfisher! For only the second time in my life I saw one, flitting from branch to branch, glowing against the gloomy dark of the canal bank. Just for a moment and then it was off, but it made me think of Advent hope lighting our dark and uncertain world. And I did walk home feeling brighter myself and lighter in spirit – the power of nature!
Blessings, Hilary R
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I woke before dawn and was very aware of the beautiful sense of ‘hush’ before the busyness of the day gets going. Words rise to the surface…..
Stepping out in faith
Requires courage, strength and trust.
These are God’s gifts to us.
‘Treasures wanting to be found’
After following the prompt
To step out of the boat,
Now is the time to
Look forward
Not back
Nor down.
Now is the time to
Hush,
Wait prayerfully,
Peacefully
And believe…
‘Why did you doubt?’
(Matthew 14:31)
Many blessings, Jane W
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I offer my response to Day 7 – Rippling Love – in the form of a haiku consisting of three verses, if that’s allowed!! Thank you so much. Jane S
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Heaven
Utters
Souls
Heal
Ruth Oriss
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I love the ‘blue hour’ before dawn.
It was inspiring to listen to your conversation with John Philip, especially about the quality of walking in moonlight.
My Greenbelt highlight this year was being in his presence and hearing him speak.
The panel is made from recycled materials: strips of fabric woven onto chicken wire.
Thank you for the shared Hush! Blessings, Jo C
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Hush, be still
Grateful for the chance to be alone in quiet places, not lost in a sea of faces
Angie M
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First Week
Rising moon,
Setting sun,
Turning with the Compass prayer
Rise my soul
In God’s precious light.
Up on the Downs or out in the open fields is my most favourite place for your wonderful compass prayers, connecting all that is so precious. This afternoon under the full moon was just amazing. Thank you Brian. Sophie L
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Thank you for a helpful & soulful first week. Here’s a picture of my compass prayer on Tuesday and some incredible dawn light with a rainbow which I had the joy of receiving while walking the dog! I live in Cornwall and it’s been raining NONSTOP and still is for days, but this was pure gift and worth the dull days for this one bright moment.
Here’s a haiku poem to accompany:
East, South, West and North
Walk the dog at Mawgan Porth
Dawn light breaking forth
Days of dull grey rain
Paused, pouring molton gold joy
Vivid veining clouds
Blue fast scudded sky,
Circling me above, below
The shore shines aglow
Safe holding us fast,
We stand awash again all
Bathed in bright beauty.
Caroline B
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Front Page – Hush
Day One – it was pouring down but inside we had candles and conviviality
Day Two – amazing light at sunset
Day Three – blackbirds singing as I walked home
Day Four – December’s full moon
Sarah Y
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Please see my moment captured as I stopped in awe at God’s Creation! Tristan MS
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Such lovely themes emerging already! Reminded of this image and quote thanks to Scott Erickson Advent book. Ian Mac
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What a great start! Thank you. Here’s my haiku.
Christmas Lights
It’s dark and wet but
You point out the red bow.
I smile – what a gift!
Michaela T
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Hush.
Child asleep in my arms:
Tucked in and trusting, peaceful,
swaddled in love.
I hear a voice:
“This could be you…
I will hold you in my arms.
Just come.”
Hush.
Thanks for another thought provoking week. Jenny H
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Here is my haiku as a response to the story of serving rice. I found it very powerful and affirming that, although I may feel inadequate, small things really do make a difference. It helped me feel ‘seen’ in my service of others.
Quiet kindness, an
Inadequate offering;
The blessing remains
Thank you. Tracie P
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The moon in Romsey, on my way home from home group. Howard B
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Helena I
…
In You,
Again
This gift of tears:
Compelling Love
From heart through eyes,
To cleanse the soul
Anew.
A new life,
A better world,
Is born
Again
In You.
Pete F
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What a joy to walk by moonlight! You never get these shadows from the sun. When the trees are bare the sun is not high enough in the sky. Mick L
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What a glorious full moon this evening. My haiku on the blessings of light:
Silvery moon light
Glowing life giving sunlight
Loving light within.
I love this song Guiding Light by Foy Vance. Not sure it was intended to be spiritual but I think it is. Trevor P
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Sun set and moon rising over the Red Sea in Sinai, Egypt. Delyth A
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Hello, Brian and everybody – lovely to be together again!
Here is my RSVP, including what I intended to be a haiku, but I don’t think it really counts as one because it has two verses. Thank you for all the beautiful RSVPs already there! Much love, Hazel R
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I resonated with the paragraph about not living up to my aspirations for this season and so am attempting to journal each day so that I am more likely to connect with God than skim past Him.
Thank you for the series. Blessings, Jo M
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Chalice Spring in Glastonbury and Petersfield Lake – the reflections in the water reminded me that when we are hushed, we often have a clearer view of heaven, and others too may get a glimpse of what is beyond through us. Every blessing to the community, Susanne I
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‘The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.’ John 1.5. Photos from “The Wonder of Christmas” at Peterborough cathedral. Angie M
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Annie H
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Reading Tuesday’s beautiful reflection “serving rice” I was reminded of this quotation:
“Ordinary love, anonymous and unnoticed as it is, is the substance of peace on earth, the currency of God’s grace in our daily lives.” Sue R
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I came out of the Thursday evening silent prayer in Canterbury Cathedral to this wonderful sight. Eddie G
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Early morning light in Petworth Park. “Flickering rays of Advent hope.” Lisa WS
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I have just taken a photo of the moon rising above the woods to the back of our house. Christmas lights are twinkling on our neighbours fence, and a tawny owl is hooting nearby. A beautiful scene of darkness to light, all hushed … apart from the owl! Shelagh S
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The light is always there. But sometimes hidden. It will always break through. Pat E
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Thank you for a beautiful series so far, Brian. This was promoted by Day 3 – Serving Rice and Rosemery Trommers’ poem, Safety Net.
ConNETcted
A simple web
Beautiful, intricately woven
Family, friends and allies
God’s arms holding us fast
ConNETcted we rest
In His safety net
Lindsey R
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My Christmas Cactus
After a season of “Hush”
Leaning in to burst forth
A welcome to the Christ Child!
Shalom, Angela W
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I was leading an online quiet morning today on the theme of roots and rooting (parable of the sower and Malcolm Guite’s O Radix) and I was reflecting on the surprising connectedness we find both in the Advent and Lent communities you gather and in online quiet mornings.
No virtue in the virtual?
Just faces on a screen
and yet there’s presence and connection.
Quiet intention links us
in time set aside to be.
Our roots in You,
whether deep
or trampled on
communicate the love we share;
and like the wood-wide web
join us in ways
deeper than we’d think.
Love, Philippa M
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Here is a picture from last night – the reflection of the moon, the life in the tree and the light from underneath and above. Let us shine from underneath and from above! Rilla
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Steven P
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Instead of an Advent calendar, I decided this year to do an Advent tree, adding a gift tag each day with a brief reflection or thought. It has its own ‘divine glow’ courtesy of LED lights. Such a beautiful idea that we all have our own divine phosphorescence – God’s light shining within and without. Elaine Collins
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Your email yesterday – ‘Serving Rice’ – brought to mind a vivid memory and prompted these words.
Pass it on
(Recalling a visit to the Karen people in the remote border hills of Thailand in 1999)
We visited the refugees
And shared the good news with them.
“But be careful how you speak”, said our host.
“Your English must be translated into Thai and then from Thai to Karen
And each reply in Karen must be translated to Thai and then to English.
So be careful how you speak; keep it plain and simple.
“Imagine that you have a handful of rice.
You must pass the rice to your neighbour and they must pass it to their neighbour
And when the rice comes back to you there must still be a good handful.
“Your words must still hold true when they return to you,” said our host.
And so the good news is passed along, hand to hand, mouth to mouth
Shepherded by the Spirit, with little spilt, until all are filled.
Lee B
…
I’ve written a haiku poem to share:
Hush, be still … listen …
The Still Small Voice might whisper …
Don’t miss it. Tune in.
Jane F
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It’s so lovely to be a part of this special community again. For the first time in seven years, I am feeling more positive about Autumn and Advent, and in response to your writing from yesterday, the Lord gave me a new poem. Thanks again for all you do for us. Have a blessed December.
I want this Advent to be different,
Ready for His coming again.
Amidst the bustle and busyness,
Make time to be still, for the “Hush” & then…..
He asks me to stop and listen awhile
To the voices of loved ones near.
To really hear the words they share
And tell them they’re very dear.
To share His amazing love and peace
And mix these with kindness too.
To be prepared to abandon my plans
To see what He wants me to do.
A time to remember God’s awesome plan
The one that that baby would bear,
To know love and forgiveness every day
Precious gifts that He wants us to share.
Sylvia C
…
I have challenged myself, this Advent, to write a Haiku a day, based on my daily walk. They are called Hush Moments, and here are the first four:
1. Algae and Fungi
a symbiotic coupling
Lichen is their child.
2. Dancing waves share joy!
The Oak shimmers, a light show
reflects the sun’s rays.
3. On lichen strewn fence,
eager for the tide’s bounty,
Rooks and jackdaws huddle.
4. Seagull flying high
Battling winter elements
holding hope aloft.
Celia J
…
A few minutes … outside
I walk …
blue sky, light bright, cool air
I pause ….
I breathe in Hush …
Be still …
In the distance I see
a tree glistening in the sunlight
suffused in light.
NOW … 🙏
I feel awe,
and great peace and presence. 🙏
Blessings to you all, Sue Tisdall
…
Thank you for a gentle, hushed start to Advent this year. This is a photo my daughter sent to me from Reykjavik last February. Luminescence … what a beautiful word. With love , Jan B
…
This morning when I read the online Bible App Lectio 365, there was a quote by Frederick Buechner that seemed a perfect fit with your theme of ‘Hush’: “Advent is like the hush in a theatre, just before the curtain rises”
And so a prayer: “Hush my soul, like a quiet theatre, to expect the curtain to rise and show me the ways your light is already here, already chasing me, bringing brightness to my world today”. Annie PP
…
I love this Benedictine meditation and think it fits beautifully with your Advent theme of Hush:
In the stilled silence
mind, heart and soul
wait upon God,
reach out to God,
not thinking,
not asking,
not doing,
just waiting
stilled upon God.
Jo dG
…
Jane G
…
Just a word to say that I was due to go to a fascia treatment (connective tissues of the body) for the first time yesterday. Your sharing the poem Safety Net landed for me as the connective tissue of the body of the whole. It felt like I was taking the whole with me. Blessings be – Ann – aka Wild Soul.
…
In today’s Lectio 365 reflections was this quotation from Frederick Buechner: “Advent is like the hush in a theatre just before the curtain rises.”
Such beautiful and unexpected synchronicity. Karen W
…
On Wednesday you wrote about the importance of holding quiet space and how this can be one way of ‘serving rice.’ It prompted me to write the following –
SERVING RICE TO MY FRIEND
As she shares with me her problems
I refrain from offering solutions.
Holding back from trying to fix her
I take time to really listen.
Sitting in silence without rushing away
The most important part of my day.
Thank you Brian. Warm wishes, Jane S
…
Light shines out of darkness
Light from Jesus shines outward from our hearts
Light shows us his glory.
2 Corinthians 4:6. We studied the whole of chapter 4 last night in our home group! Jackie W
…
An Advent season in which “life gets in the way” (//2) is probably closer to the experience of that first Advent – for Mary & Joseph, the shepherds, and the Magi – than the kind of Advent we might hope for! (And a photo of our Christmas tree, just because…😊) Phil S
…
This is a doodle I did on Tuesday while reflecting on “If you remain in me, and I in you, you will bear much fruit.”
Looking at it later I now see two figures , crouched facing each other, surrounded by the outer rings. Something womb-like – and protective – about it. Sue W
…
Feeling so privileged and full of wonder celebrating the beginning of Advent in New Mexico with family. No matter where we are, He is with us in our journey. Same sun, same moon. Colin and Helen S
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Lux Arumque takes me back to one of the holiest times of my life; singing in the choir at my small college. We sang this piece in a program that began with creation and followed the story of humanity to the cross and Resurrection of Jesus. Lux was the first piece- and I could just imagine that first light of creation and the Light of Christ. Thank you for taking me back 25 years to that sacred moment of worship. It still inhabits my memory and brings me such joy. Asa M (East Tennessee)
…
Thank you Brian for the series so far – such depth yet conveyed in simplicity.
Here is my RSVP:
H eld
U ndisturbed
S ilent
H oly moment
God bless you. Paula S
…
Here is a stanza from my poem about being stuck. I saw the rainbow as I came into the sun and the idea arrived.
Without tears
I would not find that rainbow
or the sun behind my shoulder.
Tears flow singing about a swirl
of snow obscuring the path.
The song I’m ‘singing’ is this lovely Karine Polwart song which our community choir is learning. Jonathan R
…
Thanks for a beautiful start to Advent. Here are a couple of photos which capture this for me. One of my forever favourite scriptures, read at the advent service in Winchester cathedral ❣️ and the light of candles and stars ✨ Hilary M
…
All was quiet, the tree stood strong, serene, clothed in majesty. Anne M
…
Lovely to be with you and everyone else again. Here is my offering and I shall go forth today nurturing my gentle glow! Jo M
…
This is my RSVP, called Look up!
I took this picture walking on Day 3 to quiet the left brain and energise the right brain to experience life: awe and wonder at the amazing winter trees and beautiful perfect blue sky. Ceinwen M
…
Morning Brian, last night’s moon captured inadvertently when I went out to look at the Christmas decorations in Rayleigh High Street. Mary P
…
My offering – a chant written on Wednesday morning at 6am in the dark with a candle and a guitar. (Brian’s note: sadly I can’t upload the sound file. Sorry!)
Create in me
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
renew a right spirit within me.
I follow naked the naked Christ,
in him I lead a boundless life.
Holy hope, in you the soul will preserve and reach the joy of eternal life.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
renew a right spirit within me.
This chant quotes Psalm 51:10 and St Francis of Assisi Salutation of the Virtues. Andrew D
…
Hush a bye, lullaby, sings Jesus,
our eternal lover, brother, friend.
Hush, sings Jesus to the storming wind and waves.
Fret not, I am here, you don’t need to strive to tell us how strong you are.
Be still and let your beauty and strength sparkle as you carry us safe to shore.
Hush, sings Jesus to my storming failures, missed opportunities and deliberate wrongs.
Calm down, I am here and know all about you. You don’t need to strive to remind us.
Be still, and let in a pause, a space, ready to be filled with a new story.
Hush a bye, lullaby, sings Jesus,
our eternal lover, brother, friend.
PS. Old habits die hard, so treat them gently and take firm baby steps to new ones.
Bless you, Mandy C
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After listening to the Brilliance this morning, this came up on YouTube. It so happens our choir are practicing it for the carol service. It stirred my soul! Fiona T
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Here is my response to your beautiful reflections this week:
Hush (Haiku)
Hush is a haven
Holding my soul in the dark
A soft silent hug.
With Love, Sue H
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For myself, the prayer has become “Hush; don’t rush” wherever I am, especially impatiently waiting for the car to defrost and de-mist.
Once again my church is delivering 2500+ Christmas cards across the new housing estates in Plasdwr near Cardiff. We’ve prayed the Compass Prayer over the whole area and will continue so to do. Bev W
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Thanks for the great series so far! I was lamenting on the train into Waterloo this morning that at my life stage (busy full time job, young child) I’d be unlikely to find time for any creative response.
So I was thrilled that in the greyest, least attractive part of my walk over to Westminster, as I looked mindfully for any source of nourishment in the outer world, to find this “hush” written up on a passing pillar! (Was it you?!!)
The perfect image to capture my reality today, and a gift for my commuting from now on! Chloe L
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This photograph is looking in a north-westerly direction from Ambleside on the Lake District, where I spent a couple of days last week. Beautiful!
In places of amazing beauty and joy, and also where there’s harshness and heartbreak, You beckon us, Lord. May our Advent together be a time of expectation, wonder, presence and peace. The destination is indescribably beautiful. Simon M
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Loving this advent already. Thank you so much. I’m not very creative with words but put 3 haikus together – only by using your words. Here it is:
Hush, be still, my soul
Let the clamour disperse, Hush.
Let the silence speak
Hush, be still, my soul
Encompassed in love, in peace
Let the silence speak
Hush, be still, my soul
Energy renewed, alive
Let the silence speak
Thank you, be blessed. Georgina B
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On Monday we celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary, walking in the Lake District. We made slow progress but we were not out of place, surrounded by ancient hills and trees and slow-growing moss blanketing old dry-stone walls. Audrey J
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Imagine a Christmas tree provided by nature’s abundance.
Mine would be this stunning one in Hampshire. For although dead and fallen, still hosts the most beautiful array of lichen (thanks Brian for giving me the obsession with lichen!) Next time you are out in nature, choose your Christmas tree! Rona SB
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inhabit my heart
O Light of the world.
You who made heavens and earth.
You who came to dwell.
Dwell in me.
Blessings, Karen L
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I took this photo walking home from church on Sunday. The service had been about building on rock and also being still. Walking up hill, I was drawn to the light on the pillar of flint stones. The dark shaded area next to it spoke to me of the light shining in the darkness – I stood still and marvelled at the beauty and power of the light that shines from our Rock. Susan L
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Yesterday morning – a mesmerising moment in time. Jane Russell
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Loving the series so far ❤️🙏 Here’s an offering:
I still my heart, hush
Come Lord Jesus light of the world
I love and praise you.
Jeanette P
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