It's so hard at this time of year to follow the Church Year calendar, to be counter-cultural, and to observe Advent. I hope you're taking a few minutes each day to receive the gifts God offers through Advent observance.

Advent is a time of expectant waiting, of watching, in hopefulness.

That is true, as well, during a period of convalescence. You who have experienced a period of recovery from illness or surgery know of expectant waiting, watching, hopefulness. You're alert to every sign that you're becoming more healthy, that you're becoming stronger.

Of course, during a period of recovery, the patient has work to do! It's the balance: not pushing too hard, but doing as much as s/he can, because that's how s/he becomes stronger. (Today I walked further than I have before, on the streets of my neighborhood! This afternoon, I'll bet, I'll fall deeply asleep in a nap!) Perhaps you have known a period of recovery: expectant waiting, of watching, in hopefulness, and also doing the work!

That's true of these days of Advent, as well. It's back to the point of Luther saying he would plant a tree if he was told that the world would end tomorrow. Advent reminds us to be waiting and watching in hopeful expectation for the coming of Christ into our world. Who knows where and when that is happening, and will happen? Keep alert!

Meanwhile, there is the work that God has given you to do. Keep at it!

Thank you for your love and prayers.