These alternative/additional cries are based on encounters on my walks in Advent. Unlike the traditional Advent O Antiphons that accompany the Magnificat during the last 7 days of Advent, these are not based on Scriptural names for Christ. They could be used for reflection at anytime during Advent and are based on sightings of seasonal creatures who might be engaged to point to the Incarnation.
O leaping deer
Be still my heart:
The leaping deer
Crosses my path,
Wildness come near.
O leaping deer
Come quick to bound away.
Hart take flight,
Make my heart soar:
Where our paths cross
Instill in me adventure love.
O leaping One of Advent hope
Come soon!
Continue the adventure.
O garrulous pheasant
O garrulous pheasant,
Eastern incomer,
With colourful head
How you startle me from the edges.
O talkative One,
Communicating presence,
Outspoken about injustice,
Lend us your voice in this season.
O pointing heron
O pointing heron,
Standing still, waiting:
Grey suited, slimlined,
Sharp and precise
You point ahead.
As we search for the Way,
Pointing One, alert, engaged,
Keep us on track:
Continue indicating the right direction.
O flying geese
O flying geese,
Sharing the load,
Cleaving the sky
On your winter journey,
May we follow your flight path,
Enjoying the sights,
Keeping right on:
Just flying.
Even so, come then Lord Jesus.
JAL 07.12.2019
From walks on the TPT and Rochdale Canal.
I like this!