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December 26, 2023
The Second Day of Christmas
The Journey to an Epiphany
Today I wish to thank each of you for spending Advent with me. Our journey has brought special meaning to a time which has already held a place in my heart. This year, just knowing you were there, I felt as if I was held in your energy, your experience. Even though we were not communicating in words we were fellow travelers, on a sacred mission, seeking enlightenment, together, as one. I am moved to continue our journey and ask you to consider walking together toward an Epiphany. Your presence is felt, welcomed, and cherished. So, let us begin.
On this second day of Christmas, 2023, the reading I have chosen is from Luke 2:8-14.
The Reading
December 26, 2023
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:8-14
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December 24, 2023
The Twenty Second Day of Advent
This morning, before light, my granddaughter came down to my apartment. She had walked through the sitting room, and knocked on the bedroom door, simultaneously turning the doorknob. And there she was. How she knew it was the fourth Sunday in Advent I do not know, because she is only four years old. But the first thing she said was, “Gram CeCe, it is time. We can light all four candles today.” Her enthusiasm was the only thing that brought me up, and out from under the warm covers, saying, “Okay, let’s do this.” I must have told her we would light all four candles in the circle yesterday. However she knew, she knew. She was taking a page out of my book, I thought. So, I reciprocated with, “Let’s do this!” A page I took from her book. In the darkness, even before the tree lights were lit, we sat around the Advent wreath, she waiting eagerly, while I struggled with the match box. Then it was done. All four candles of Advent were shining brightly. Before I could say or do anything she blurted out, not in a whisper, but in a statement, “I love you, God.” I asked her if she was ready to sing. To my surprise she replied, “No, we are done.” So, we sat on the sofa, close as close could be. I realized, in the quiet, that she was correct. The best thing we could say was, “I love you, God.” For that statement and belief is what led us throughout the season of Advent. It was what led Mary, and Elizabeth, Zachariah, and Joseph. It was faith, hope, trust, belief, and love of God. And so, we arrive at Christmas Eve. My heart is filled with quiet anticipation.
On this twenty second day of Advent, 2023, the reading I have chosen is from Micah 5:2.
The Reading
December 24, 2023
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans[a] of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Micah 5:2