Just when you think times can’t get darker, in comes the
season of light. When your mind has turned all night, the sun begins to rise. It’s
another day. You don’t know what direction to turn and suddenly a kind word of
wisdom points the way.
Today marked the first day of Advent leading to the
celebration of Christmas. Candles were lit around the world encouraging
thoughtful and prayerful opening of hearts and minds to the way that love can
change the world. I can’t think of better timing!
I certainly could use Advent and its wonderful time for
reflection and preparation and its powerful reminders of comfort and joy to be
found in the story of a child born in a manger and his short time among us on Earth.
Jesus said, “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and
the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of
the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is
coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they
will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. Now
when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because
your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke
21:25-28)
What a lovely invitation continues to be extended to us year
after year. We may have to wait for Christmas Day, but we never have to wait
for its gift to us. We don’t have to wait for a special day, for a year, for an
hour or even another minute. We just have to be willing to accept the
invitation for a better life, a life of light.
“Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of
darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in
which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility...” (From A
Collect for the First Sunday of Advent, Book
of Common Prayer, pg. 211)
Take comfort in the fact that darkness, no matter how dark it
may be, will never win against the light. Take it into your heart and feel its
strength and share it with others. With light and love you can change your
world and the world of others for better.
As we enter Advent, I am reminded of the other wonderful
celebrations of light from around the world, especially our Hindu friends who just
celebrated Diwali. A wonderful five-day festival, Diwali celebrates the victory
of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness. Our Jewish
friends celebration of Hanukkah begins soon as well, reminding us that there
will always be enough oil to light the sacred lamp.
We have everything we need, my friends. Take a look at what
may be keeping you in the dark and do what you need to do to let the light show
you the way. Listen to those loving words of kindness from friends and family.
Find the support of community. Read, pray, meditate, exercise, rest. Take time
for yourself and do more for others. Make room for the light; it will give you
life.
With love and light,
LT
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