“the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” Matthew 4:16
I spend quite a bit of time on the road. I have a love/ hate relationship with driving this time of year. The weather can be so cruddy, as we have all experienced this last week. Despite weather, I really enjoy driving this time of year and seeing all the lights! I LOVE Christmas lights!
It’s been such a treat to see how town got so decked out for the Christmas Extravaganza, the lights are wonderful and magical. For me, what is even better is driving in the country. On those dark, chilly nights where the stars and moon are so bright and there comes the surprise. Trees, barns, houses, and even farming equipment lit up with Christmas lights! A light in the darkness.
I get surprised, I think we all do, at the unexpected scenes that seem to pop up in front of us in the middle of the prairie. I have to stop and look. I have to spend some moments of just pure joy looking at these lights in the darkness.
I get reminded over and over again, how God broke into the darkness of humanity- by angels, a young woman, an unsuspecting husband, shepherds, wise men, a star and a baby king in a manger. God keeps breaking through the darkness of the world and keeps breaking into the world — not to destroy, but to bring light. I give thanks that God didn’t stop there. That the darkness of our days keeps getting fissures and cracks that allow the light to come in. God doesn’t leave us in the darkness alone. But God keeps breaking in, bringing hope, light, life and new to us all. May you experience those places and spaces that God’s light breaks into your world. In the unexpected times and places, with the unexpected people that God sends to walk with you. May you be in wonder and joy at God’s presence in your life and bring you light!
Christmas Blessings Vicar Teri