Seeing that we are still in the Christian season of Christmas this message from our Bishop is still timely. Christmas Message from Bishop Mary Froiland Lost in the night do the people yet languish, Longing for morning the darkness to vanquish, Plaintively sighing with hearts full of anguish. Will not day come soon? Will not day come soon? ~ELW #243 v. 1 The Advent season of waiting and preparation for Jesus draws to a close, and we are ready to celebrate the Light that shines in the darkness, the birth of God among us. Sometimes that celebration can ring hollow, though, as we live in the reality of the pain and suffering of this world. Immanuel, God is with us. The Prince of Peace is born. Yet still we languish, lost in the night. Battles rage around the globe and in our homes. Parents grieve the senseless death of children who should have been safe at school. The deaths of Eric Garner and Michael Brown, have sparked violent protests throughout the United States. The deaths of Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos, New York City police officers killed in retaliation for the killings of Eric and Michael, arouse more fear and despair. We wonder when and how will it all end? Will not day come soon? Will not day come soon? It is either the greatest naiveté, or the most profound act of faith, to shine a light in the midst of this apparently impenetrable darkness; to hold in our hearts and live out through our actions the promise of God’s peace. Jesus continues to be born in and among us, calling us again and again to proclaim a different way, God’s way, a way of compassion and understanding and love. Even as we lift our hearts and our voices in prayer and lament for all affected by violence and the brokenness of our world, we dare to celebrate the birth among us of God’s unconditional love in Jesus. We dare to declare the Light shines in the darkness and the darkness will never overcome it. At Christmas time and every time, may we recommit ourselves to following Jesus and living in the present reality of God’s kingdom. Light o’er the land of the needy is beaming; Rivers of life through its deserts are streaming, Bringing all peoples a Savior redeeming. Come and save us soon! Come and save us soon! ~ELW #243 v. 4 God’s Peace, Bishop Mary Froiland
Posted on: Wed, 31 Dec 2014 15:05:29 +0000
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