Today as we begin, as a moment of reflection I want to share some thoughts on a powerful poem by Howard Thurman titled “The Work of Christmas.” With the holidays just behind us, we oftentimes, and all-to-quickly, leave the memories and the significance of Christmas behind. This poem offers us a challenge us to think beyond the holiday season and reflect on the roles we play in making the world a better place.
As we listen to, think about and reflect on this poem let us be mindful how our participation on the Pope John Paul II Award and the activities we are undertaking are us living the spirit of the poem: "The Work of Christmas" 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 flock, 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 others, To make music in the heart. -Howard Thurman **Understanding the Poem:** Howard Thurman was an influential theologian, and his poem emphasises that the true work begins after the festive lights are turned off and the carols have ended. Here's what it means: 1. **Beyond the Celebration:** - The poem begins by reminding us that Christmas is not just about celebration. It’s about taking the spirit of love, joy, and peace – signified in the birth of Christ - into our everyday lives. 2. **Our Role:** - Thurman lists actions that signify the true essence of Christmas: finding the lost, healing the broken, feeding the hungry, releasing prisoners, rebuilding nations, bringing peace, and making music in the heart. These are actions that we can all strive to incorporate into our lives. **Applying the Message:** Let’s think about how we can apply these messages in our own lives: 1. **Acts of Kindness:** - Small acts of kindness can have a huge impact. Whether it’s helping a friend who’s feeling down, volunteering, or simply being more considerate, these actions contribute to the real work of Christmas. 2. **Community Engagement:** - Being part of your community is crucial. Consider contributing to local charities, joining community service groups, or participating in activities that bring people together and foster unity. 3. **Personal Reflection:** - Reflect on personal growth. Identify areas where you can improve and ways to contribute positively to the world around you. Self-improvement is a continuous journey that aligns with the work described in the poem. 4. **Advocating for Change:** - Use your voice to stand up for causes that matter to you. Whether it's environmental issues, social justice, or equality, every step towards change is part of the ongoing work Thurman refers to. **Conclusion:** To conclude, “The Work of Christmas” challenges us to embody the virtues of Christmas throughout the year. It calls on us to transform the spirit of celebration into actions that heal and uplift our communities.
As we begin our meeting today, the first time we come together this year, I want to talk about a profound and inspiring quote from Pope Francis:
“Time is a treasure that all of us possess, yet we guard it jealously, since we want to use it only for ourselves. Let us ask for the grace to find time for God and for our neighbour — for those who are alone or suffering, for those who need someone to listen and show concern for them.” Let’s explore about what this means for us as young people today and as we continue our participation in the Pope John Paul II Award. **Understanding the Message:** 1. **Time as a Treasure:** - Pope Francis begins by reminding us that time is a valuable gift that each of us has. Unlike material possessions, time is equal for everyone, and how we use it can have a profound impact on ourselves and those around us. 2. **Guarding Time for Self:** - It’s natural to want to use our time for ourselves—our activities, interests, and relaxation. However, Pope Francis encourages us to look beyond ourselves and consider how we can use this precious resource for a greater purpose. 3. **Making Time for God:** - Finding time for God doesn’t necessarily mean extra hours in prayer or worship, though these are important. It can also mean living out our faith in everyday actions, showing gratitude, and being mindful of God’s working through us, His presence in our lives and in the world around us. 4. **Time for Others:** - We are called to extend our time to others, especially those who are lonely or in need. Small gestures—a conversation, a helping hand, a listening ear—can be incredibly meaningful and align with the teachings of Jesus to love and serve our neighbour. **Practical Ways to Live This Message:** 1. **Daily Reflection:** - Set aside a few minutes each day to reflect on how you spent your time. Ask yourself if there’s a moment you could have used differently to help someone or to connect with God. 2. **Volunteering:** - Find opportunities in your school, church, or community to volunteer. Activities such as helping at a local food bank, visiting the elderly, or participating in community clean-ups allow you to dedicate time to others. 3. **Active Listening:** - In our busy lives, truly listening can be challenging. Make a conscious effort to be present when someone is speaking to you. Showing genuine concern and interest is a simple yet powerful way to use your time meaningfully. 4. **Balance:** - While it’s important to give time to others, it’s equally crucial to balance it with self-care and personal time. Make sure your schedule reflects a harmony of service, worship, and personal rejuvenation. **Conclusion:** As we reflect on Pope Francis’ quote, let’s strive to view time not just as hours in the day, or as activities on our record card, but as opportunities to enhance our relationship with God and those around us. Let’s open our hearts and schedules to make time a shared gift rather than a private possession. Find below a short text to use for a moment of prayer at your November meeting. Feel free to use as much or as little as you like.
A short Powerpoint Presentation is also available for those who may have the technology to display it. |