What are you expecting for Christmas this year? The question isn’t exactly the same as, “what do you want for Christmas?” You see, in my family growing up, I might have wanted a Nintendo Gameboy or a cool toy. But I didn’t get what I wanted. Instead, I often got a book to read or a new sweater to wear, and eventually I came to expect those presents after recognizing the pattern year after year. So, what are you expecting for Christmas this year? What are you looking forward to? Maybe you … [Read more...]
Advent
A Continual, Defiant Nevertheless
I want each of us, where we are, to pause for just a moment. Let the stillness sink in. Notice where we are: who is around us; the smells and sounds. Take the things that might be pulling your attention away from here, from this moment, and set them to one side. Take a deep breath. And now welcome to Advent 3. Welcome, my friends, to Gaudete Sunday - the Sunday of Rejoicing, the Sunday of Joy. *** The reason that I had you pause just now is because I suspect that your minds, like … [Read more...]
Let It Be To Me
Oh God of love, help us to hear your invitation today, as you call each of us on a journey of faith, and equip us with all that is necessary to reply, “Let it be to me as you have said.” Amen. The story I’m about to tell you is called "An Angelic Salutation", and it was written by David Walker, the Bishop of Manchester. An Angelic Salutation For a long while they sat opposite each other, gently holding hands. She with her head bent, her body racked with sobs; the Angel calm, still, waiting … [Read more...]