There are periods of life when we enter a time of darkness.
Sometimes it is nothing we do. Sometimes it is not something we choose. Sometimes
it just happens. We find ourselves in a place where life is messy. So we pull
back. It’s not intentional. It’s not meant to slight anyone. The fact is, it
just happens.
At this time of year we are encouraged to stop and reflect.
Reflect on the year that was. Reflect on the year to come. Those pesky New Year
resolutions are just around the corner. It is also the time of year that is
literally the darkest hours in the northern hemisphere. And it is this time
when we begin a season of celebration.
Advent is the traditional time leading up to Christmas. It
is during this darkest season that we wait in anticipation of the birth of
Christ. We look forward to longer daylight hours. We celebrate the coming of
the New Year and new beginnings. It is somehow appropriate that we wait in the
dark.
Please, dear reader, do not get me wrong. I am not
depressed. I have not gone through some personal, horrible tragedy. While I
have been away from posting, it is because I have been busy. Busy with work at
a job I love. Busy with family, whom I adore. Busy with living!
Thinking about this time of year; thinking about the
darkness of Advent, I am thankful for the time. I am also invigorated to think
that a New Year is just around the corner. I have the opportunity to set new
goals or recommit to goals that never truly went away. They were just set
aside. Set aside for a time that feels like darkness, but is really in
anticipation of the light that is to come.
Come, celebrate the darkness of Advent with me.
For
unto us a Child is born,
Unto
us a Son is given;
And
the government will be upon His shoulder.
And
His name will be called
Wonderful
Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting
Father, Prince of Peace
- Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)
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