Father of Lights

Dear Faith Family,

Every good and perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning, James 1:17. 

(Please enjoy the following encouragement from the pen of my wife, Cyndi.  Thank you, Cyndi!) 

As I prepare for coming, sitting in this school of longing and repentance called Advent, sunlight filters through the window exposing the thick layer of dust on my table. A telltale sign that I’m too busy; too busy to attend to things including my heart. Yesterday was a perfect example as I plopped into bed way too late with my list still unfinished. When we take the time to see what the Son shines on, we realize what’s broken and not right in the world; in our world. We are tempted with worry. It’s uncomfortable. We ache for what (who) is missing and lost. In preparation, we endeavor to repair all that is wrong, but the one who is coming is the only one who can repair. He is the only one who can fill the missing spaces in my life. He is the only one who can heal all that is broken in my heart. He is the only one who can restore all that is lost in the world. 

I love Christmas lights, my compensation for the sun setting so early. My husband will testify to this. I put them up the day after Thanksgiving and do not take them down until Epiphany. I have lots of them which must all be turned off every night before bed. (My husband has developed an elaborate system of switches so he can quickly turn them off. He complains, but he loves his switches.) 

I just love the lights and the way they beautifully pierce the darkness. I look forward to sitting quietly with them sparkling all around as I slowly begin my day with reading or slowly end my day with needle work. Slow is how we prepare. It’s how we see. Don’t be afraid to see the dust, but don’t keep your eyes there. Follow the rays and look at the Son, the only One who is truly able to prepare us for His Advent.  He is truly the perfect gift.   

Waiting,

Pastor Karl