December 12, 2024

This time of year is difficult for many people. The short day and long nights, the cold wet weather, and the press of the busyness and emotion of the holidays can all make things especially trying. 
As we go through these days, be sure to make a point of seeking those things that bring you joy. I hope you celebrated St. Nicholas’ day last week and that you plan to enjoy the light of St. Lucy’s day tomorrow. Take a walk and enjoy the Christmas lights in your neighborhood. Give a donation to a cause that warms your heart, whether that is a charity or a person on the street corner. Look through an old photo album or make plans and write down your hopes and goals for the year ahead. I hope you take time to be still, let go of the busyness, and pray, meditate, or read scripture as you sit in a warm house or in the church, or walk under the trees. The true light is coming into the world, take time to watch for and bask in its first rays.

Sometimes it is easier to see the light when we acknowledge the darkness. On December 21, the darkest night of the year, please join us for the Blue Christmas service and offer the darkness in your life at the altar and light a candle with your Resurrection community. If you need help finding light and joy this season, reach out to me or to Lauri, reach out to another in the congregation, reach out to a therapist or doctor. All of us are here to listen, and Advent is our reminder that the light is always returning.
 
Remember to send any questions you have about the theology, words, structure, or history of our service of Holy Eucharist. They will be very useful as I put together an instructed Eucharist for some time in January.