Yesterday was the first day of Advent, a time of expectation. It’s funny because I never really understood Advent as expectation before worshiping at Grace Covenant Presbyterian. When I was a kid, I expected to get lots of gifts but I knew that wasn’t what this meant. Under Mark Ramsey’s leadership, the sanctuary remained plain without all the Christmas decorations I saw elsewhere.  We sang no Christmas Carols but rather Advent hymns.  It became a sort of journey for me which I appreciated.

I love moons and right now, we have a super moon which happens rarely. Here is a picture of the moon in Jakarta, Indonesia with two symbols that I love:  a moon and star.  I’m aware this is not a typical Advent picture but for me it’s perfect..  I’m looking forward to contemplating what God is calling me to do next.  The moon always reminds that God is with me – even in the darkness.  The star reminds me that I’m on a journey just as the Wise folks traveled to meet the Christ child.

is morning I watched the start of the New Poor People’s Campaign in Washington D.C. with the prophet, Dr. William Barber. Leaders in every faith tradition spoke and gave support for this campaign. I’ve been very depressed about our nation’s budget but watching this, energized me.  I am on a journey.  I don’t know where it’s going to lead but God is with me.

I imagine members of this campaign will eventually do civil disobedience.. I don’t think I’m called to do civil disobedience again but I will listen for God’s voice to make sure.  I want to be part of this campaign in some way and I will wait until the Spirit moves in me to act. We sang a song at Circle of Mercy last night with words written by Br. Roger of Taize and the music written by Mark Siler.  It’s one of my favorites.

“Rest your heart in God, let yourself float on the safe waters,
Living life as it comes, with all the rough weather it may bring.
Give, without counting how many years are left,
Give, not worried about surviving as long as possible.
Rest your heart in God.”

This Advent, I will rest my heart in God.