Hello Everyone,
In his reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Archbishop Don Bolen reminds us that the Incarnation is "God’s way of healing and redeeming a wounded humanity by walking with us, accompanying us with mercy in our pain and in our joy," and that, "The Risen Lord is neither afraid nor reluctant to come walk with us in the messiness and brokenness of our lives...Indeed because of the Incarnation we believe that Jesus is at home in all of that, and asks us to be at home in it as well."
I'm reminded this year of all of the joyful celebrations of Christmas we've been blessed to have as a family, and all of the painful, exasperated and frustrating ones as well. The words of our Bishop are a much-needed reminder that Christ has not refrained or backed away from walking with us in both.
As Christmas day approaches, I pray that you too may discover, perhaps to your surprise, the Christ in your midst, sharing your joys and laughter, consoling in your tears, and carrying you when needed most.
From Melissa and myself, Merry Christmas and all the best to you and those you love in the New Year to come.
Peace and God Bless,
Deacon Eric