Last week, after having run errands all morning and returned to the house with arms full, I realized that my keys were safely nestled in the zipped pocket on the inside of my winter jacket. I stared at the doorknob, felt the pressure of the keys on my chest, and said to myself, "Of course." And, like nearly everyone else in this situation, I tried to unzip my coat, hold the storm door open with my knee, and retrieve my keys. It didn't go well. Right before the grocery bag tore down the middle, I wisely decided to put all the bags down and step away from the door. I needed to let go of what I was holding.
This is a full week. From the exciting news of a breakthrough in the study of nuclear fusion or the celebrations of the World Cup, to the mournful remembrance of the shooting at Sandy Hook in Newtown, CT ten years ago or the more intimate moments of challenge or sadness (which often happen during holiday seasons).
This is a full week. On Tuesday, Rev. Bob invited us into a space to care for one another as we experience such grief. Wednesday night the vestry gathered to discern our ministry and mission for this coming year and approve a budget. This Saturday the Parish Choir and Chorister gather to practice and prepare for the Christmas celebrations ahead. In Atlanta, at 2:00 pm on Saturday, Janelle Hiroshige will be ordained a deacon, as she responds to God's call in her life. On Sunday, we welcome the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem at the Adult Forum to explore the homeland of Jesus and our longing for peace and home in this world. At 5:00 pm on Sunday evening we celebrate our festive Lessons and Carols service, in a sanctuary adorned by the Flower Guild and prepared by the Altar Guild; after the service we have a festive reception together — a wonderful way to enter more deeply into Advent, towards Christmas. Just sharing all that is happening this week makes us realize, our arms are full. Full of wonderful and beautiful and, maybe, heavy things.
I'm reminded that it is good to carry such things. And, there comes a time to set these things down. Maybe when the work is finished, the songs are sung, the relationships tended, the call heard. To let go, reminds us that we can't do everything ourselves; indeed, we are not the center of it all. We need help opening the door or are invited to set something down to take another up. This Advent season, this week, is full — but let it not be about busy-ness or distraction, checking-lists, or getting wrapped up in the worry of a perfect "whatever". Advent and the celebration of Christmas is about this: we are not alone, God is with us, this sacred life rests in God's embrace — no matter what we carry.
Happy Advent friends. See you Sunday,
Nick
