It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
Trees and wreaths.
Lights. Candy canes. Sugar cookies.
Blow up snow globes, Santas, and reindeer in front yards.
Our outdoor mailboxes are full of catalogs, and our online mailboxes are full of “last minute deal” offers.
In truth, it’s beginning to look and feel a lot like holiday overwhelm.
For many of us, this time of year, with all the lights and trees, the holiday gatherings, and the constant commercials for movies with happy endings on the Hallmark channel – for all of our attempts at cheering ourselves up, all the stuff just doesn’t add up to peace and joy.
In truth, all the activity makes us want to hide under our covers and cry.
We find that as the days get shorter, we long for simple and quiet moments when we can take a few deep breaths and stare at the flicker of candles. We wish for opportunities to gather with other like-minded seekers of quietness – without the need to make small talk. We just want to sit, to be still, and to bask in the stillness.
For many of us, this time of year feels more lonely and sorrow-filled than we would care to admit out loud. We are reminded of how much we miss loved ones who have died and whose loss we still mourn.
For many of us, instead of wanting to be surrounded by bright lights and loud music, we find ourselves drawn towards the blues and towards silence.
If any of this resonates with you, I ask that you consider joining us here at Caldwell this Thursday, December 12th at 7 pm for our Blue Christmas service. We will gather in the Shelby room to sing a few songs, stare at the flicker of candles, hear a brief meditation, and pray. Afterwards, we will enjoy some hot apple cider and cookies.
I hope to see you on Thursday.
Grace and peace, Gail
PS. If any of this resonates with you, please remember that one of the names given to Jesus was Emmanuel, which means “God with us.” Beloved one, please remember that God is with you, holding you close, crying with you when you cry. Jesus promised to never leave us nor forsake us, and through the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus is keeping that promise. When you are feeling completely alone, please remember that you have 24 hour access to the God who created the entire universe. Through prayer, you can say anything and everything that is on your heart. You can ask God anything at any time. I hope that after you pray, you will lean in and listen for God’s answer. I hope you will look around and watch for signs of God’s presence. And most of all, I pray that you will find God’s answers to be more than you can ask or imagine – Ephesian 3:14-21.
PSS. Construction will begin at the corner of 5th and Hawthorne later this week.
Here is a map of how to navigate your way to the church once the construction begins.