Our Advent Devotional Reading Series will start on December 1, which is the first Sunday of Advent and will continue until New Years Day. Advent is the beginning of the church year. As in years past I will be selecting Bible passages from the lectionary used by the United Church of Canada which is a three-year cycle, and this year, Advent is the start of Year C. I will also be using the traditional Advent themes of hope, peace, joy and love.
As always, these guides are intended to help you explore some of emotions and thoughts you may experience by providing a Bible reference, a reflection starter, and a prayer. If you only have a few minutes, simply read the reference, and carry the thought with you during your day. If you have more time, you may want to open the Bible translation of your choice and prayerfully read more of the reference passage. Allow the prayer to be a starting point for your own prayer time.
If you miss a day or more, don’t feel guilty or think that you need to catch up. You can if you want, but if you don’t have time or energy, simply carry on from the current day. As well, I certainly recognize that Advent and Christmas can be a difficult time of year. There is nothing wrong with feeling sad or anxious at this time. Those feelings are telling you there is something you need to be aware of, meditate upon and move through. If those feelings are too intense for you to handle on your own please find a friend to talk to or even get professional help.
All the blessings of the seasons to you all! Jan
