hope in the bleak midwinter ...

We light the candle of Hope.
hope
like a seed
buried deep within the earth;
hidden
covered by layer,
disappointment, struggle, pain;
buried yet stretching,
growing and becoming.
hope
like a seed
becoming new life.
we light a candle for hope
Katherine Hawker, www.liturgy.net

It’s been said that hope is less an act of will as it is an act of imagination, curiosity, and of courage. Hope sees clearly the difficulties of life and says, somehow we’ll get through and God will be there not only every step of the way, but on the other side of it too, promising this life to which we have been called. Hope is there for us all. Hope stands at hospice bedsides and at gravesites, if you have courage enough to see it. Hope reaches into the despair and the bleakness and injustice, if you are imaginative enough to find it. Hope will take you beyond your own experiences and to places where you have not yet been, if you are curious enough to try.

In worship this morning we will light one of four candles on the Advent Wreath. May that candle be not only a symbol but a stirring of hope in our hearts. Come, Lord Jesus, come as the LIght of the World.

Blessings this Advent Sunday -
Pastor Kris