In the midst of Advent I hold on to the hope that Christmas brings. The wonder and beauty of this season fills me with peace and I know that miracles still happen. That "peace on earth" is possible, those who are outcasts will be welcomed, and "joy to the world" will be experienced by everyone!
I know that this can be a challenging time for many people. Even now a friend of mine has a sister who is dying. I spoke with another person who is struggling with poor health and will not live much longer. Someone else is dealing with depression and struggles to go through each day. I listen to each person and offer them my words of hope in this season we call Advent.
Advent is an invitation for us all to open our hearts and lives up to the wonder and mystery of Christmas. Like Mary and Joseph we too can go on a journey that will lead us to a place in which we can experience the love of God. We can kneel at the manger and know what it feels like to open ourselves up to being vulnerable. We can stop looking for something that is not there and give thanks for what and WHO we do have in our lives, the people, the friends, the lover, the partner, the family.
Our Advent Adventure can bring us to the realization that the greatest gift of all is the gift of God's love and that we are created to share our love with each other. It is the legacy we will leave behind.
My prayer is that you will experience the love of God in such a profound way that you are filled with all the hope and joy that Christmas offers to us.
I will write again before Christmas!
Thank you Pastor Judy! HOPE- for me, is like a priceless thread that runs through my life, it connects me directly to Gods grace and keeps me wondering, waiting and wanting more. I find that the love and prayer I generate is equal to the goodness I hope for.
ReplyDeleteMay God continue to wrap you and your ministry like a babe in swaddling clothes and nurture blessed MCC. With much love and respect, Mair