We worry. Theologian Howard Thurman writes: “The streets of our minds seethe with endless traffic; our spirits resound with clashings, with noisy silences.” And the questions persist: “what are we doing with our lives? Where are we trying to go? For what end do we make sacrifices? To what am I true?” Hard questions in…
Irving, Texas
'Advent' tagged posts
Anticipation and excitement starts to build in the hearts of children as the first signs of Christmas begin to arrive. Whether it is the decorations around town, the songs in the stores, the brisk cool weather arriving, children begin to delight at the many presents that they will receive. A few of our Upper Elementary…
The most anticipation I’ve ever experienced is having a baby. There are so many unknowns and firsttime experiences that are both exciting and scary. Since I’ve now given birth, I think the anticipation continues to grow as Julia grows and learns new things. In a lot of ways, I’m sure that Mary was filled with…
Advent Hands by Catherine Alder I see the hands of Joseph. Back and forth along bare wood they move. There is worry in those working hands, sorting out confusing thoughts with every stroke. “How can this be, my beautiful Mary now with child?” Rough with deep splinters, these hands, small, painful splinters like tiny…
Is it Christmas time? Or Advent? How should we feel and think about this time of year? Try this scenario: Right after Halloween, we start planning and stockpiling for the Holiday, with maybe some bonus early shopping. By late November, just as Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, we burst into full Christmas mode. The decorations go up,…
Unless your age is counted in single digits Christmas probably doesn’t have the same feeling it once did. How we looked forward to vacation from school, seeing relatives, and, of course, the presents! Remember seeing all those gifts under the tree, and when mom wasn’t looking, picking ours up and shaking them to see if we…