Roses in December

“God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.”― J.M. Barrie

A Blessing for Beginning Again in Advent by Kate Bowler

God, could this be the year when we see it?
The goodness that is coming,
like starlight from a distant time?

Could this be the Advent when we sense it?
That the springtime of the soul
will one day last forever?

Could this be the Advent when we notice
the inbreaking of your coming promises?
Promises full of blessing:
of truth so clear, so bright
that every shadowy lie must flee away.

Of compassion so deep, so strong
that everyone is encircled in its embrace.
Of restoration so complete, so beautiful
that there is gladness everywhere.
And of justice so satisfying and so right,
that all will be well.

May this Advent be the new beginning,
as we learn to live by the light
of your coming promises.

Glimpsing the world through tears,
while also seeing something
sacred shining through too.

Our Truth. Our Light.
Our Promise incarnate.
Amen.”

First day, last month.
First day of Advent.
The journey all are invited too.
All.
Accept the invitation.
No rules, regulations or membership card required.
May this first day of Advent, first day of the last month of this year.
Be filled with reflection, inquiry, longing, belonging, listening, transformation.
New beginnings, the invitation to all, not some or few.
Trust the anchor.
Hope the kite.
Light in the dark.
Roses in December.