Hold Fast
by Margaret Schmitt
These are the dark days of winter in Alaska, especially as we move closer to the Winter Solstice. During these times, it is my faith that helps me through - my trust in God. One theme I pulled from all of the readings is that of hope - even in the darkest of times, like winter in Alaska, there is hope - hope for the people of Israel, hope for the two blind men, and hope for all of us. Hold fast to the hope.
During the Gospel reading, the two blind men, who were healed, did not follow Jesus' word, rather they spread news that they were healed. While I understand them wanting to share their miracle and give others hope, I wonder what Jesus' plan was and why they did not listen to his direction to keep quiet. As an elementary teacher, I understand how hard it can be to be quiet and listen to directions. Perhaps this is what happened - the blind men were simply too excited to follow directions.
Advent is a time of contemplation and reflection, a time of hope and of preparation. As we wrap up the first week of our Advent season, where can you take time to listen to Jesus, to follow his direction, to find hope? Even though these are the dark days of winter, the sunrises and sunsets are spectacular. They give me hope and stillness. They help me listen to what Jesus is calling me to do.
Have thoughts on this reflection? Share with a comment by clicking here:
Know someone who would like to receive these daily reflections during the season of Advent? Share the email or send them this link. Did someone forward this to you and you’d like to subscribe? Click below to receive this in your inbox each morning of Advent.
We also have a year round, weekly newsletter that offers a reflection on the Sunday readings, feasts that fall during the week, and a variety of special topics. If this appeals, subscribe here:
You can contact our editor at jennifer@wisdomsdwelling.com.