This Sunday is the last Sunday in the Christian year. Traditionally it is “Christ the King” or “Reign of Christ” Sunday. It is a day to reflect on where we are in our faith journey as individuals and as a community. This year, it is also “Thanksgiving Sunday” and a day to give thanks.
Herein lies the hope. We are a people of hope in the midst of a struggling world. We trust that Love will prevail, eventually. We also know that Love needs our hands, our voices, our presence, our prayers, our actions to bring about healing.
What are you doing for yourself this week? Will you make time for your favorite hobby or activity? Will join in a communal activity or two? Will you take a nap? Will you take some time to be still and take in the beauty of Creation? What nurtures you, restores you, or gives you rest?
Next is a series on "Change" which will also include stewardship. Then it really will be Advent and we'll embark on the journey to Bethlehem together. I'm wondering what you need in your life and what we need in the life of the community to be ready for that journey.
It's important to check in with ourselves, and make sure we aren't taking on too much or isolating ourselves too much. At this time of year, I frequently think about balance. Please take time to enjoy the beauty of the world around us in the midst of keeping up with everything else.
In spite of the challenges in the world today, Creation is filled with beauty, wonder, and awe. While we don't shy away from pain or despair, we do want to name them so we can begin to free ourselves from them. Then we can more fully embrace the gifts of Creation.
We truly have so much that is needed in the world around us. Our continuous question is how do we share what we have in a way that makes a difference to those we encounter?
