This year the last Sunday in November is the first Sunday in Advent. An image repeated over and over during the Advent season is that of light. Images of light that scatters the darkness and pushes away the shadows of fear. It is the light we long for. The light of love.
The light is, of course, Jesus. And during the season of Advent we anticipate, prepare for, and wait for the moment that God has promised to all of creation: the arrival of our Savior. The time for the birth of Jesus. In a world so full of instability and anger, we long for this moment of wholeness and peace.
Let’s be honest. Sometimes, as we wait for the arrival of Jesus, we feel as though we are in the dark. Our lives our full of anxiety and conflict. We are continually disappointed by our families, friends, and neighbors…we continually disappoint them as well…we continually disappoint ourselves. We turn our back to others in need…even in this season of joyful sharing. We long for peace in a world that is racked by violence and mistrust.
And so we pray for Jesus’ healing presence in our lives. We long for the light of Jesus.
We can sense it can’t we? We know Jesus’ light is coming. There are signs surrounding us: Christmas lights shining colorfully and brightly on trees, people take a moment of their lives to contribute to others well-being, someone opening a door for us and saying, “Merry Christmas.” Our taking a moment to send a Christmas card.
And we pray that Jesus’ light will continue to shine upon us enlightening all of creation.
It is truly Good News! It is the Good News we proclaim. It is the Good News we live out. Jesus’ light shines on the world. The light of Jesus brightens our days…even our darkest moments. And will do so now and forever.
Christ’s Peace, Pastor Steve