Is this seasonal celebrating, so familiar that we have not made room for something new? I notice I fall into a familiar repeating pattern. Each decoration has its spot, the gifts are mailed on the same day, the Christmas dinner menu is the same, and even the singing of carols, we know what to expect. There is a great comfort in the familiar, in what we love. I am not suggesting changing the rituals that have become so meaningful to us. I am wondering if we can also make room for something else, something new, maybe even be surprised in our experience of the Divine, God with us, in this season.

Is it all sewn up-my life?

Is it at this point so predictable,

so orderly,

so neat,

so arranged

so right,

that I don't have time or space

for listening for the rustle of angels' wings

or running to stables to see a baby?

Could this be what he meant when he said

Listen, those who have ears to hear...

Look, those who have eyes to see?

O God, give me the humbleness of those shepherds

who saw in the cold December darkness

the Coming of Light!

the Advent of Love!
~ Ann Weems

I wonder how we can keep our hearts open to the wonder and possibilities of light and love bursting into our world?