12 Days, Six: The Babe

Tomorrow for Christmas Sunday I have the opportunity to sing the beautiful song "Breath of Heaven." Our music director chose all the songs and all the people to sing them. When I was assigned this song I didn't think much of it, but I have come to care very tenderly for the emotions of this song. After having my own children pondering the role of Mary in the nativity story has been a favorite part of the Christmas season. She was such a courageous, strong and humble soul. And then there was Joseph, a faithful, understanding and loving companion. Thinking of being in the last days of pregnancy, riding on a donkey, seeking shelter, and having your first child far from home, in a stable with animals, and not having family/friends to help sounds so daunting and frightening. But there is such a peace in the nativity story, that I am sure qualmed all the anxious and overwhelming thoughts Mary must have been having.

In the words of this song there is great hope! We all feel weak, alone, overwhelmed in this life. But Christ is the one who lightens that load, brings light to the darkest of times and helps us overcome grief and pain. How grateful I am He was born to courageous parents so long ago. What a daunting task it must have been to know you were raising the son of God.

Being a parent to little souls is already trying and hard, I cannot imagine adding the fact that your son was Gods and was sent here to save mankind. I have thought a great deal though on the fact that we are ALL children of God and we all have a great duty to become more like the Savior. Each one of us has divine potential from the very beginning. Every babe born into this world can have hope and peace in this life because of Christ.

Looking back to the morning I had William I remember thinking a lot about my breath. It is easy to start hyperventilating or holding your breath as you are in labor. But it is crucial for you to not do that and be in control of your breathing. I love the phrase, "Hold me together" in this song because in times of great stress, anxiety, loneliness (or whatever emotion you want to slide in there) you sometimes literally feel like you might fall apart. Pausing to breath and allow the heavens to open and care for you is so important in this life. We are not alone and there is a loving Heavenly Father who yearns for our happiness. As you travel through this life seek the Lord, like the shepards and wise men of old, seek for His light. For He truly "lightens the darkness."

Breath of Heaven

"I have travelled many moonless night
Cold and weary, with a babe inside
And I wonder what I've done
Holy Father, you have come
And chosen me now
To carry your son

I am waiting in a silent prayer
I am frightened by the load I bear
In a world as cold as stone,
Must I walk this path alone?
Be with me now
Be with me now

Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Light up my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy

Breath of heaven
Do you wonder as you watch my face
If a wiser one one should have had my place
But I offer all I am
For the mercy of your plan
Help me be strong
Help me be
Help me

Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Light up my darkness.."