Advent 1 | WONDER

“…And star differs from star in splendor.”
1 Corinthians 15:41**

Advent has come again.  In this darkest time of the year, the flame of the first Advent candle speaks of mystery, of longing, of something wonderous on the horizons just beyond sight.  

As you begin this season of waiting, we invite you to look for a clear night when stars are visible in the sky.  Bundle up and wander out into the dark, leaving lights and devices behind.  Savor the silence.  Gaze upward and consider the gleaming stars overhead.  Walk. Sit. Wait.

Ponder these questions: 

What do I hope that the practices and prayers of Advent will form in me? 
When I wake on Christmas, how will I be different because of this season?

** With love we remember UVA’s #1 Lavel Davis Sr., #15 Devin Chandler and #41 D'Sean Perry

Sure on this shining night
Of star made shadows round,
Kindness must watch for me
This side the ground.
The late year lies down the north.
All is healed, all is health.
High summer holds the earth.
Hearts all whole.
Sure on this shining night I weep for wonder wand’ring 
Far
Alone
Of shadows on the stars.

-James Agee