ニューイングランドの母校からアドヴェントカレンダー 12月16日（火）

Day 17 | Elizabeth’s Lunar Longings
David A. Currie
Luke 1:5–13

The phases of the moon mark seasons
for righteous deeds and temple service;
But with each wax and wane come pain
—a mocking of my name: "My God Has Sworn."

Each lunar cycle, blood-stained proof,
a womb still empty
—no sacrifice sufficient to please my God, aloof?
So silent for so long...

In time, the years remove the red reminder
of my monthly barrenness
sealing fruitlessness forever,
the one command I cannot keep.

Once more, the moon calls my good man forth
from our house to the Lord's
—the lot for offering incense,
a smoldering hope,
a prayer.

At home I wait
—A deeper prayer ignites my soul:
someone to speak the Word
and shatter centuries of silence.

Our God could answer each or none or both
according to his oath
—as I embrace the fullness of my name:
"My God Is Abundance."

Could waning moon mean waxing womb?...
A portent of the promised prophet,
Whose Word prepares the way to welcome
that birth most-longed for?

What are some of your deepest longings? Your greatest hopes? Your longest prayers? Lay them before the Lord and leave them with him in anticipation of the Advent of his fulfillment for you and for the people of God, as for Elizabeth.