Advent is here.  The time of expectant waiting and preparation begins.  As the days grow shorter and the nights longer we are reminded of our need for the light.

The light that came to save us.  The light that came to guide us home.

Soon a thick blanket of snow will cover the ground.  The trees are already bare.  The skyline stark and grey as winter descends.  The earth begins its quiet slumber.

And so we withdraw.  We gather around candlelight, fireplaces, and fir trees lit up.  Our thirst for the light grows stronger.  Our flesh craves the warmth of the sun.

“Come …. let us walk in the light of the Lord.” (Isaiah 2:5)

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light — on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” (Isaiah 9:2)

Our souls long for Him.  He from whom we came.  We long to return to our source.  Though the world outside swirls with busyness, self-induced demands, unprecedented distraction and an incessant press for more – – His Spirit whispers to us: less.  Rest you weary ones, gather around and see what wonder I will reveal to you.

And our hearts give up a collective sigh.  We exhale our consent as we gather together and wait with hopeful anticipation for He who saves us from ourselves.

Shalom