Advent

Longing. The church calls this time before Christmas the Advent season. Advent means coming. We know God is coming, inteh child of mary and Joseph born on Christmas. We'd also like God ot come and fix things. That's the longing part. God, I wish my life were better, my relationships sounder, my circumstances different. There is so much that is dark and hurtful in the world, and I wish you'd fix it. We really need the peace and joy of Christmas and we need it to last all year. At St. Mark's we have a candle stand where people can say a prayer and light a candle. The candle table faces a window. At night we offer our prayers, light a candle, and when we look up--guess what we see? Our faces! It seems God is answering our prayers by reminding us that it starts with me. If I'd like a happier life, well, do something about it. If I'd like a more peaceful world, well, start by creating understanding with the people closest. God says, "Sure I can make the world better, but I need someone to be my hands and feet. How about you?" May God grant you the wisdom to work with the Lord in making your life, and this world, better.