A thoughtful poem for Christmas

This poem was incorporated into our worship service at church, and I didn't realize until later that it was taken from a poem by Malcolm Guite that local artist, Steve Bell, had set to music...and I happen to have the CD!

The truth of it struck me deeply and I want to share it with you.
(Listen to a clip of it here).

Descent

Steve Bell and Malcolm Guite

They sought to soar into the skies
Those classic gods of high renown
For lofty pride aspires to rise
But you came down

You dropped down from the mountains sheer
Forsook the eagle for the dove
The other gods demanded fear
But You gave love

Where chiselled marble seemed to freeze
Their abstract and perfected form
Compassion brought you to your knees
Your blood was warm

They called for blood in sacrifice
Their victims on an altar bled
When no one else could pay the price
You died instead

They towered above our mortal plain
Dismissed this restless flesh with scorn,
Aloof from birth and death and pain
But You were born

Born to these burdens, borne by all
Born with us all 'astride the grave'
Weak, to be with us when we fall
And strong to save

http://malcolmguite.wordpress.com/

The poem/song also inspired this painting by local artist, Faye Hall.

"Descent" by Faye Hall - read story here