I have tried for several hours to write this reflection, it is now late at night on Christmas Eve. There are currently four other drafts open on my computer. My Christmas tree is lit, the nativity scene is next to it, Christmas music is playing softly. Somehow it feels like I am in a moment that is Christmas, yet not Christmas.
I want to offer inspiration or wisdom. I don’t think I have any at the moment.
And that is fine.
That is what I wish to offer you. I offer my open and empty hands as I lift up a prayer for you. May you experience God’s light and peace. May you encounter God with us, Emmanuel. And if today is a little too difficult, a little too strange, a little too lonely, a little too hard to feel the presence of God, I pray you take that next breath and take care of yourself.
The beauty of our God is that God is ever present. God’s love, hope, peace, and blessings are not dependent on what you feel or what you do. God’s presence is with you now, in this moment. God is with you. God is with us.
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.
For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace. His dominion is vast and forever peaceful, from David’s throne, and over his kingdom, which he confirms and sustains by judgment and justice, both now and forever.