We believe that study and debate and the use of reason can help us know God better. When we wrestle with language and ideas, when we are challenged by others, we believe it can lead us to truth. We believe it may help us know how to behave ethically, solve complex problems, and discern how to make our own good laws.
Today, as you light the second Advent candle, ask yourself what the light might reveal, what it might burn away, and how you might be changed during this Advent season.
The Song of Zechariah reminds us that it is fear that binds us, but God is there to give us the strength to break free, and once free to determine for ourselves to put our feet on a different path.
Over and over again I find the son at my gates. Over and over again I have the choice to let him in or to take him out and kill him.
Reading the Bible gives access to a cultural touchstone and exposes the reader to stories that have been told for centuries. And reading the Bible oneself rather than hearing stories about what the bible says can be it’s own form of revelation.
Make this Advent different. Every day, let’s turn our vague intentions into a single, deliberate act of love. God knows and loves us in our fears and foolishness as well as in our courage and goodness.
The inner depths of love are woven as a web A shroud of our hearts cast to cover the Depths of sorrow Sometimes
The inclination to do violence is strong, but “That day, ” and “these things” require gentleness, restraint, the keeping of our souls. As we enter Advent, be sober and alert. Don’t let yourself get caught up in blame, revenge, violence. And light your candle. Hold it high.
We have people today telling us to fear and protect ourselves but we also have prophets who remind us that we are not helpless or hopeless. The thing is, to whom do we listen? Who do we believe?
Having once been required by the circumstances in my life to work in retail, I remember well the experience of Black Friday from a worker’s standpoint.