I can’t believe we are halfway through Advent already. Don’t you wish you could hit the “pause” button? Our creature habits don’t die or change easily. Even if we’re retired, we still run ourselves ragged trying to get everything done. Traditions can be re-founded, and stories can be re-shaped. Cherish and savor the stolen moments of repose, because it is only in them that the true meaning of the Advent journey can be fully appreciated.

We can take our cues from the stories in Scripture and the texts of our Advent hymns. Remember how Abraham and Sarah ventured into the great unknown. Were they heroic? Maybe so, but we know that God is. He came in human form because he wanted to assure us that in all times, He refuses to abandon His people. This is most certainly Good News of great JOY! It brings us joy to know that we can still hold this treasure in our heart when Advent and Christmas find us being lonely and hurting. Many grieve the first Christmas without a spouse. Facing surgery or continuing cancer treatments. Unable to fully participate in church activities and special worship services. Journeying through the wilderness of heartache and disappointment. It is then that our story can be one of God’s abiding presence, the gift that is for us.

Our memories of past Christmas celebrations can bring comfort. Even if it can’t be like it once was, your story gets added to as it is enfolded in the divine mystery of Emmanuel, God with us. He has come, is coming in less than three weeks, and will come again further on down the road in humanity’s journey. All the while, may you feel His unconditional love.  

Pastor Art