I’ve said before that one of my favorite writers is Ann Weems. In her book, Kneeling in Bethlehem, she shares a piece called “Toward the Light.” In part, it reads:
Too often our answer to the darkness
is not running toward Bethlehem
but running away.
We ought to know by now that we can’t see
where we’re going in the dark.
Running away is rampant…
separation is stylish.
Run and tranquilize,
don’t talk about it,
avoid.
Run away and join the [throngs]
of those who have already run away.
When are we going to learn that Christmas Peace
comes only when we turn and face the darkness?
Only then will we be able to see the light of the world.1
I’m not always big on the insistence that each candle on the advent wreath symbolize a certain something…Mostly because there are so many different traditions as to
what each candle stands for, and folks can get caught up in debate as opposed to
devotion. That said, this year the tradition of the candles serving as reminders that hope, peace, joy and love ultimately shine through the December darkness seems particularly apt. Together, may we continue to face the darkness of these days
unafraid. May we be bearers of hope, peace, joy and love so that all whom we
encounter (even those who are running away) will know safety, welcome and light. And may we be reminded, again and again, that Emmanuel – God with us – sustains us through and carries us as we strive to live and love like Jesus.
Advent blessings (and an early Merry Christmas).
God’s peace and much love,
+ Pr. Sara
- Ann Weems, Kneeling in Bethlehem (Westminster/John Knox Press, 1993), 23.