Exquisite Dawn: Advent : Light to the Nations - Tim Knipp (Isa. 8 and 9)

Backs turned to light,
walking in shadows
cast by their own stubbornness,
they slowly starve
to skeletal
caricatures.

When we scavenge
for life-giving nutrients
among the stagnant pools 
existing outside of God's light -
in body lust;
in vain adulation
and superficial social reputations -
rage, voiced or mutely expressed,
scars our thin-skinned souls
like razor-wire.

Our world is bombarded
with twisted shards 
of broken mirrors
reflecting rebellious frisson
as they fall
to slice and 
impale.

Yet, in the distance
arises an exquisite dawn,
joy will blossom
in frozen hearts,
melting chains,
swords and implements 
of destruction,
to be re-crafted
as vehicles of justice.

A child is birthed
in sweat and blood;
a one-of-a-kind King
whose kingdom will bring
balance to a world
off-kilter.
He will reign through
space and time,
unlimited by any restraints.
We will call Him
Amazing Friend,
Indisputable Sovereign,
Abba Father,
His Highness 
of Harmony.

Hope in human form,
shaped as we are
yet more than us -
the missing puzzle piece
in perfect dimensions
to fill the gaping hole
torn in the fabric
of our world.
Perfect goodness personified,
He whom we have yearned for
is among us now in spirit
and will return one day
in the flesh
to eradicate injustice,
obliterate the oppressors
and set free
those who languish
in dark and pestilential 
prisons,
both seen
and unseen.

Rejoice!
Rejoice!