It is a blustery and cold day outside the church here in Truro but we have power and for that I am grateful. As we celebrated the light of the world on Christmas Day some 158,000 households lost their power and so had to find light and warmth in another way. We were fortunate because in Lower Sackville the power only went out in certain areas. While the house was in darkness we were able to pack everything up and head to the church which had power to finish and enjoy our Christmas dinner. In some ways this was probably fitting for our family and it was a wonderful place to gather and celebrate.
We had three wonderful services on Christmas eve and each one had it’s own unique personality and joy. When I finished on Christmas Eve I would have said that the service which spoke to my spirit the most was the 10 pm service as we journeyed to the manger in the shadow of the cross. However, today I would change that to say that Christmas morning was the one that will rest in my being as we head into the new year. 13 of us gathered around the Christmas tree and the fireplace on Christmas morning to share stories and memories and to sing. (And for a group that had no instrument to back us up I must say we did pretty good!)
I asked those around the circle to share a Christmas memory that has stuck with them over the years. What touched my soul was what followed. I had expected people to talk about a particular event, or present or perhaps family gathering or a tradition that they carried with them. But that wasn’t the case.
The first person started to talk about not one Christmas but the meaning of Christmas that really should be present not just one day of the year but all year. He said that what sticks with him is the message of love and hope that we share and how that permeates every aspect of life.
The second person chimed in with a message that was sent to them in a Christmas cared which said “Never give up” and how this too is part of the message that we need to carry with us all the time.
Another person began to talk about leaving home and coming to Truro and how the church was the place that she has felt this love and hope and how spending Christmas with her church family and friends is what speaks to her.
And still another continued with how the church family, who is always there, holds this message of hope and love in a real and tangible way.
As I listened to these voices there was a song in my heart and I knew that the light of Christ was burning bright.
Wherever you have found yourself this Christmas season it is my prayer that you have known a moment of love, experienced a ray of hope and seen the light that will guide you through thick and thin.
Blessings
Valerie
© 2017 Rev. Valerie Peyton Kingsbury. All rights reserved
Thank you Rev. Valerie, I needed to read this , was not able to get to church to hear you thoughtful and loving words of what makes this time of year so special. I still felt the warmth of everyone that was able to make the trip to your services.
Time and happening in my home over the holidays did not allow me to do what I wanted. You have open so many tears of love that only my heart has the answers.
Thank you Valerie for helping me to come to such a warm and loving family in The First United Church.
Carolyn Ward.
Love and hugs as you make your way through this part of the journey.