All is calm, all is bright
Isaiah 9:2-7 NRSVUE
2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined.
3 You have multiplied exultation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.
4 For the yoke of their burden and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
5 For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders, and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Great will be his authority, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
By Pastor Autumn Krueger
Today we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord, and light the final Advent candle! In a few short hours the church will fill with hundreds of people, and I’m reminded of God’s abundance as the sanctuary bursts with the voices of many chatting and singing joyously together. We’ll hear the Word of God read and proclaimed, the crèche will be built, the lights will dim and the glow of only our candles and glow sticks will illuminate the room, and a calm will settle upon us as we raise that light high. It is this calm that ends my night.
The 11p.m. service is my favorite one because after the day's long joyous celebrations, the aliveness and energy, Sarah’s harp will resonate throughout the sanctuary and a different energy will fill the room. We’ll receive God’s grace through communion, and I get to end my night reflecting on all of the faces I saw illuminated by Christ’s light throughout the day. (I encourage you to look around tonight at all those gathered so you too get to see this!)
I am so encouraged by you all from all the stories I have heard this season about your generosity, your kindness, and your love for others. I don’t need to say “remember the reason for the season” because you already know. The one we’ve been preparing for has been born, the Christ child. And all that is left to do, is live.
Friends, may you live with the light of Jesus Christ guiding your way, letting hope energize you, peace fall upon you, joy find you, and love guide you. Amen.
Autumn Krueger is Associate Pastor of Student and Family Ministry.