Advent Meditation - December 9th

Illinois winters

            Each quarter of the moon allows us a lens to see differently. The Waxing Moon bolsters, encourages and inspires us, reminding us each night that more light is on its way.

            As we move in and through these nights we recognize there are times when we feel that somehow we are more able to see, more able to make sense of what is happening in our lives. Often in these moments, as more light comes we feel a greater understanding of what lessons we have been learning along the way. And somehow with that, we feel the light of the moon returning to guide us on our path. Here in these nights, may our hearts be opened, as we are given more light with which to see.

Relying on the Moon: Companioning Grief for 29 Days (adapted) by Lesley Brogan

            Advent season invites us to see our world differently. On this night of the Waxing quarter moon we are reminded that more light is with us now, more than even just a week ago. We witness again the gift given from paying attention.

            Decembers in Georgia are different from my memories of Decembers growing up in Illinois. I remember snow on the ground by this time of year. Going outside in Illinois took intention and effort; it always seemed to involve a great deal of bundling up. The wind could blow right through you and the hot chocolate has never tasted better. There was a lot from those Illinois winters that I don’t miss at all, but there are a few things I hope to always carry with me. I hope to long remember the smell of wood burning in the fireplace, the sound of that wood popping and the crunching of the snow underfoot. And I hope to hold on to the light of the moon shining brightly on those cold winter nights.

            The Waxing Moon reminds us of more light coming. Like the prophets of old, this lunar messenger brings us hope as we journey on. Tonight we see better than before and tomorrow night promises even more than this. Pay attention. Don’t give up. Keep watching. More light is on the way.

Breath prayer: “more light”  “will come”

Prayer: Illuminating One, come into our lives. Fill us with your light and warm our weary spirits, we pray. Keep us watching and lead us on – ever closer to you. Amen. 

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