A MESSAGE FROM REV. DEB

Dear Friends,

 

Are you saying to yourself and a perhaps a few others? "Where did January go?!" I pray that the new year has offered you moments of hopeful anticipation. 

 

The winter skies this year have reminded us that life is change and our lives are filled with unexpected changes, including the ever unpredictable and temperamental weather. We'd been told to brace for "the worst,” a bitter winter ahead. Who would have imagined 60-degree days in January? As we Mid-westerners know all too well, the worst is probably yet to come, and we may crawl into Spring even more slowly. Spring will come and surprise us again. 

 

In the meantime, our winter skies have shed warmth and bright light during our shortened days. The night sky offered a brilliant moon, full and round, with an expanding nimbus. It helped me imagine what signs of light the Magi saw and the signs of God who is the giver of Light. Our winter skies have given us starry nights and clear roads at the busiest times of travel. "I'll take it," someone said, "and be glad". "Me too," I said. Then we both laughed and said, “Get ready for snow!” 

 

Life is change and filled with unexpected change. I'll take the moments of calm before the storm, any light that can be shed, and the reminder that change isn't all bad. After all, where would we be if we were still stuck in last year? Why it's nearly February already. We are pulled forward by life and changes and seasons and our many hopes.

 

Our many hopes...a friend recently sent an email with an update concerning her months long struggle with cancer and healing…”if there is one thing having a serious illness teaches one, it is to appreciate all the goodness and wonder this world provides and to let go of small inconveniences and irritations. The phrase life is too short takes on new meaning. I wish you fresh snowfalls, amazing sunsets, spring days in the middle of winter, and joy to be found in the little things.” I’ll take it and be grateful.

 

So, 2012 here we are ready to go, if somewhat road weary. May the God of all Hope give you strength and flexibility for the storms, winged feet to soar beyond the hurdles, trust, so deep a well, that your roots of hope only lengthen, and joy that surprises you & changes you when you least expect.

 

Your Friend in Christ,