Through Stained Glass: Advent Word-A-Day -- Together & Embrace

 Together & Embrace 

 At least once during the photo-a-day journey, I get behind. So, this post is a two-for-one. 

 The first photo is for ‘together.’ I took the other night at Kirk Night. A few weeks back, I invited the Wednesday night group to come up with an advent candle-lighting liturgy for the first two weeks of the season. All I asked is that they do it together. The photo captures two of our church friends offering a blessing to each other. We entered a sacred space together, witnessed each other’s hopes, and encouraged each other to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for the One who promised is faithful." And we danced ... check it out in this poem!

Let it be said: you—whoever you are—have a place here. You belong, and I (Adam) genuinely believe that the Divine finds joy in you. So, understand this, my friend: if you're seeking a space where you won't feel alone—a space connected by love—come and join us. Together is better anyway!

 A friend of the church, who has been joyfully participating in the photo-a-day challenge, shared one of her beautiful moments with her family together. 

 Today, they sent another one embracing a family member with a hug. Did you know hugs are good for us? Of course, asking permission to hug someone, especially if we don’t know them well, is essential. Hugging deepens our sense of connection and can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

 Embracing your Doggo or Catto yields similar benefits! 

 My photo for *embrace* features an Owl perched in a Tree with a beautiful December sky behind it. 

 Here’s the deal: I wouldn’t have gotten this photo without December or late fall. After spotting the Owl, it would have flown into the Tree, and I would have lost sight of Them. Instead, by embracing the seasons, knowing when to grow and when to let go, the Tree was free of leaves. Embrace the opportunity for growth – and for rest – for hibernation – and regeneration. 

 As I stood observing this magnificent Bird of Prey, I felt peace. And I pray that in the days ahead, you experience, know, encounter, create, cultivate – peace – as one season gives way to the next.