Lectio Divina:

"And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.  Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, holy is his name."  

Luke 1: 46 - 49

Dear Montview Friends,

We know you feel as broken-hearted as we do. The tragic events of the last week strike a blow to the hope and joy of the Christmas season. It's difficult to celebrate when we know so many are suffering and grieving so deeply. 

But this is the price we pay for love. When others in the human family suffer, our hearts are open and broken too. 

The truth is that we need not look far to realize that sadness is always a part of the Christmas season. We miss friends and family who have gone before us. We face unfulfilled expectations and dreams. We worry for our children and grandchildren, wondering what kind of world we will leave them. We shoulder our own burdens; grief, illness, worries and challenges. Everything seems so much more poignant at this time of year.

In the face of all that troubles, we, as the community of faith, gather in kindness, generosity and love. We light candles to remind ourselves that our love, our kindness to one another and our defiant hope in God's love persists; even in the darkest day. As you carry the burdens of your own life and share the sorrow of others, we pray you will look upon each other with kindness. We trust that you will remain generous of spirit to those you do not know. And we hope you will continue to nourish the good wherever you find it. We pray that God's peace will heal your hearts and the hearts of all who are troubled.

May this season of Christmas dawn with strength and hope in each of your hearts.

A Blessed Christmas to each of you,

Cindy, Ian, and Tilman