In the Christian tradition the season of Advent began on November 29th. For the next four weeks we will listen again to the voice of the ancients and hear that familiar story that speaks of the light that came into the world in Jesus. Many churches have an advent wreath and each of the Sundays a candle is lit with the middle candle being lit on Christmas Eve. The lights are reminders of the messages of hope, peace, joy and love that are embedded in the Christmas Story.

A Road – The Journey to Bethlehem

In my congregation, this year, we are not using a wreath. Instead we have created a road that symbolizes the journey we take to Bethlehem. Along the way we will meet the others who walk the path beginning with the prophets, Mary and Joseph, the Shepherds and finally the other pilgrims who accompany us. We will hear the ancient story and the story that is ours today.

One of Hope and Challenge

With all that is happening in our communities and in our world the message of Christmas speaks to the heart of who we are as Christians and what we are called to do. It addresses the way that we treat one another and the world in which we live. It calls us to fashion our lives in a particular way and work for a society that is built on respect, dignity, compassion, love and peace.

The story is one of hope ~

That the light that comes to us in Jesus will indeed pierce the darkness and guide us on the journey

That someday we will live in a world that is ruled by love instead of hate

That we will reach a point where we are no longer paralyzed by fear but freed to free others

The story is one of challenge ~

Can we leave our places of comfort and move into the unknown and embrace a different way of life

Can we look at one another and all creation and learn that we are connected by the same source of energy that gives us life

Can we come face to face with all the others on the road and drop the barriers of race , religion and culture so that we see one another as brothers and sisters

Can we make room for all who find themselves in need of a place to rest

Can we bring our gifts and offer them in the building a better world

This is Christmas!

The Journey to Bethlehem

Blessings
Valerie