Saturday, December 20, 2008

Dearest God,

During the Advent and Christmas season, I patiently await your coming. I never know how, when or where you will appear to me. But every year there is a special gift. When I discover it, I am amazed, filled with faith and gratitude. One year my hands became a manger for your son as I offered the Eucharist on Christmas Eve. So full of joy and humility I was truly overwhelmed with the gift.

Silent Night, Holy Night has been speaking to me this year. Every time I hear it I stop and listen. I can be listening to Christmas music and enjoying it but when this song comes on something happens and I pause. Sometimes I weep. Other times I sing or hum along. But always I sense a part of your mystery is unfolding before me. And I wonder. Am I being called to spend time in silence? Is there a message for me? Are you wanting to get my full attention? Do you desire to mend a broken place inside me?

In just a few days on Christmas Eve I will stand in a darkened room lighted only by a Christ candle. I will take the light of your son and I will light the candles of my lambs, those honored people I have had the privilege of serving. And together we will sing Silent Night, Holy Night. And I sense that you will be powerfully present.

Call me
to silence,
My Maker;
still my
own voice
so that
it is yours only
that I hear.
Speak to me
your will.
Call me
to obedience
and fullness
of your joy.

Love, Andrea