Scripture: I Thessalonians 5:16, Matthew 5:16
Advent is one of the most glorious seasons in the Christian Calendar. All around you there seems to be a “Song in the Air” lit by a “Star in the Sky”. We sing many traditional hymns during this wondrous season, many of which have lyrics that revere the beauty and wonder of the birth of the Christ child. One traditional song we sing during Advent talks about a mother’s deep prayer and a baby’s low cry. I have always loved the imagery of Mary holding the Baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes before laying him in the humble manger. In my heart, I can hear her “heart singing a new song”, speaking to God in thanks for her beautiful baby and for the safe arrival of the new King. I imagine the barn animals drawing in close to keep the infant warm through the cold of the night, revering this small creation of God and knowing that they are graced by his presence. I hope that each of your hearts will be filled with the wonder, beauty and brightness of the the holiday season. I thank God for the gift of the Christ Child and pray that all who believe in HIM are blessed during this season of love.
Prayer: Dear Lord, We thank you for giving us a reason to sing a beautiful new song. We ask that you be with us and guide us as we move forward in this season of beauty and love. Let us worship you, praise your name, sing with the love of Jesus in our hearts. Show us the path to righteousness; forgive us for our shortcomings and failings; let our hearts sing and our lights shine for your glory. Shine your light to show us the way that you would have us to go now and through out the year. Let us draw in close, like the humble animals, and be awed by the new born King. The birth of Jesus is all about peace, hope, love and joy ….. may the light of the stars in the heavens give light unto your feet and shine on your hearts to bless and keep you in the new year.
Nancy, John, Malcolm and Olivia Malone
