It hardly seems possible that it is the end of 2019. As a culture, we are looking at a new decade (the roaring twenties?) and as always, this season offers us a time for reflection on what has been and hope for what is yet to come.
In the Church, Advent begins on December 1st this year. The season of Advent includes the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. This is the BEGINNING of the liturgical year in the Church, not the end of the year. Once again, as God’s people, we find ourselves upside down against the rhythms of the world.
Many of you know that Advent is one of my favorite times in the Church year. This fresh beginning beckons us toward new visions. We hear stories of the most unlikely things happening in the most unlikely ways through the most unlikely people. John the Baptizer, the young Mary, an infant savior, shepherds in the fields, astrologers following a bright star to a stable. If God can set just such a stage, with just such people, imagine how God might use us as well.
It is my hope for each of you that you will find spaces and places for some reflection in your days. I know that you are busy with all of the things that this season brings. Perhaps, though, you can find a space in the course of your day for an Advent pause. I like to do this as dusk falls (so, around 4:00!) A cup of tea and some small sweet treat and maybe a candle and some reflection. If you don’t have time for tea, perhaps an intentional walk or even just a pause.
Advent is a season of waiting. We wait for Jesus to come. For God to show up. For the world to change. For justice to reign. For angels to sing.
This Advent, we also invite you to Listen. Listen to what God is saying and to the ways grace is being spoken into life. Our gathering litany will be about listening as we light the candles and watch the light shine forth in the shadowed places.
As we wait, know that Bruce and I wish you and those you love the deep blessings of this sacred season. May your Advent be a time of reflection and may Christmas be full of joy.
Grace & peace,
Pastor Julie Hutson+
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The Messenger- November 2019