“Happy New Year!”
Our pastor got a number of blank stares on this November morning until he reminded us that the first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical year.
It seems strange, at first, that our year opens this way. Our broader society begins the new year on a high. A majority of people are coming off the fever pitch of celebration that is Christmas, and on December 31st, we ring in the new year with fireworks, champagne, and a huge party. The Christian new year is different. Much more solemn. Advent is a whole season of waiting. We sing and pray, “O come, O come, Emmanuel! Death’s dark shadow put to flight!”
Continue reading “Advent reflection”
Sun in the Shadowlands 