Logically, I've been thinking of endings. I don't know of anyone who will be sorry to see 2020 go, as it's been quite a trying year. The end of a Presidential term is coming, and of course, my time on the UMRA Executive Committee. When one thing ends, another generally begins. We think we have an idea of how the new thing will go, but we never really do. An ending is always bittersweet as we say good-bye to all we've known, and to people we've come to love and care for. And then we're asked to take a step, or leap, of faith into the unknown and begin something new.
When Jesus was preparing to leave his disciples he gave them tasks to accomplish: preach, teach, baptise, make disciples, care for others as I've cared for you, feed, visit, give water to those who ask. He also gave them encouragement that he was going to prepare a new and better place for them to eventually inhabit. Finally, he reminded them that he would always be with them, no matter what.
I would encourage you to continue to be the disciples God has called you to be, and to allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you in the path you are to take.
Loving God, we thank you for endings and beginnings. We thank you for your call in our lives, which is ever changing, and always the same. We thank you for angels among us who help us along the way, and hold us up when we're having trouble putting one foot in front of the other. And in this season of Advent and Christmas, we thank you that you chose to become incarnate among us to show us how we are to live our lives and remain always in contact with you. Be with us and guide us always...Amen.