Rector's Rambling - December 13th, 2009

First, let me wish everyone a Happy St. Lucy’s Day, and a blessed Rose Sunday.
No one likes to be told to “lighten up”, but that is exactly what we are doing this Sunday.
After the last two weeks of deep purple vestments and altar hangings to begin the season of Advent (signifying the penitential aspect of this season), this week we ‘lighten up’ with the Rose colored vestments and hangings, and even have flowers on the Altar this week. Or perhaps you hadn’t noticed that we haven’t had flowers recently?
So how is Advent going for you? Have you given much thought (other than on Sunday in Church) to the fact that we are in more than just ‘pre-Christmas’? Have you revived or increased your prayer life? Opened your bible and read it? Taken on a charitable cause or two (the ECW at St. John’s has had opportunities to help others less fortunate, and other opportunities abound)? Examined the state of your soul? Repented (and even made a sacramental confession) of those sins you have observed in the examination? Have you shared the reason for your hope, Jesus Christ himself? Invited someone to Church for a Sunday? Invited them for Christmas Services?
If you have done any of the above - THANKS BE TO GOD! And if not, enjoy ‘lightening up’ today, and start fresh for the rest of Advent! Our Lord is coming back, and the celebration of his first coming is coming soon. Let us be in a State of Grace for both!
(reprinted from 12/14/08)
PS - St. Lucy was a virgin martyr who died about the year 303 at the age of 20. Her name means “Light” - something in short supply in mid-to-late December!