Dear Covenant Community:

Have you heard this winter’s weather prediction? The prediction is for colder temperatures and more snow than usual. This news can send shivers down the spine just thinking about dismal commutes, school closings and more. Or, you are anxiously preparing your skis and snowboards for exhilarating runs down the slopes.

Advent points us to certainty during this season of shorter days and dipping temperatures. Advent, the season of expectant waiting and anticipation of what we know, the birth of Jesus; and, what we can not foresee but expect, the second coming of Christ. Can you place yourself in Joseph or Mary’s shoes? They surely could not predict the awe and splendor of the wonderful blessing they would share with mankind. Their uncertainty and longing is inconceivable to most of us in this modern world with GPS, sonograms, and cell phones. Mary and Joseph, following a star, traveling by donkey, finding no room in an inn, resorting to a stable, and giving birth surrounded by strangers. The enormity of it all is overwhelming! Their journey required immeasurable courage strengthened by their faith.

With Advent comes preparation of the soul, of our spirit as we ponder the meaning of the birth of Jesus. Every week we see in the bulletin the Seven Spiritual Disciplines. The spiritual disciplines are a template for our faithfulness. We also have the Advent Calendar as a colorful study for adults, our children, and the child in all of us as we prepare for the joys of the season. Our faith requires reflection and contemplation at all times; however, Advent requests that we breathe deeply and absorb these precious moments by being steadfast in our practice of the spiritual disciplines. After all, we are preparing for two profound tenants of our faith: Jesus’ birth and the anticipation of the second coming. What an appropriate time to recommit ourselves to our spiritual discipline practice.

Advent also marks the beginning of the Christian year. At St. David’s we are experiencing new beginnings. The hope of things to come may often appear overwhelming. Our faith is in knowing that there is a master plan. And, to celebrate God’s gift of his son, your traditional Christmas offering is a special gift of thanksgiving as we rejoice in our many blessings.

Gracious Lord, the leaves have fallen and the air has become cold. Remind me that this is a time to slow down. Help me breathe deeply the frigid air and know myself to be held in the warmth of your love. When the sun is high, let me look up and be bathed in your gift of winter’s gold. When the moon lights up the night, let me look up and drink in your gift of calm. I ask for the sake of your love. Amen*.

Our future rests with us---our ability to love one another and to remain focused on our Savior. We wait together in hopeful anticipation with preparation and longing. Let us all come together as an even stronger and more vibrant covenant community where no one stands alone.

Faithfully,

Your Vestry

*An adaptation of Winter’s Gold an Advent Prayer from Explorefaith.com