Welcome Advent

This season of year is filled with anticipation, wonder, and a certain tension that stirs one’s inner Spirit. Stories are told reminding people to keep a watchful eye to see the arrival of good news to relieve a stressed and pain-filled world. Stories are told from different perspectives – there are visiting angels and emboldened shepherds – there are faithful wise men traveling by the guidance of a star and kings whose insecurities destroy families and alter generations.

We hear of dreams. Dreams that speak of hope and light in dark and unsettling times. To discover this hope, life-changing journeys must be taken. These journeys were both on foot and in the heart. A willingness to say “yes” transforms the life of a girl into a mother of a baby boy – a boy whose presence would shake earth’s foundation.

In Advent we are reminded to pay attention to details. Advent’s stories are told every year but their details can speak to us in different ways when told in new times and places.

Spend time with these stories, listening for their wisdom in this time and place. Insightful, inspiring, and at times disconcerting may we hear these familiar words ready to live God’s good news in a time when truth is losing value and trust is hard to find.

May God’s face shine upon you.
May God’s hope bring you wholeness.
And may you walk this day towards the light of a small star. (d365)