#AdventWord #Rough #粗糙

施洗約翰摘錄以賽亞先知的話，路加福音的作者宣告:「高高低低的道路要改為平坦」為預備神的到來。這個訊息已傳承了許多世代，現在臨到我們，我們被呼召要完成道路平坦的任務。嚴厲的話語，尖銳的碰撞，以及憤恨的習性都是建立和諧關係的挑戰，無論是與人或與神的關係。精練是使道路平坦的必經過程，而我們被呼召做這事，是因著那位以慈愛來精煉我們的神。傳遞下去。

Luke the Gospel writer, quoting John the Baptizer quoting Isaiah the Prophet, proclaims that the “rough ways will be made smooth” in preparation for the coming of God. This message, passed down through the ages, now comes to us and we are called to the task of making smooth. Harsh words, sharp elbows, and uneven temperaments are challenges to harmonious relationships, human and divine. Refinement is the process of making smooth and we are called to this work by the One who lovingly refines us. Pass it on.

The local herring industry was at its peak on Holy Island during the second half of the 19th century, when there were 30+ herring boats, and the herring were smoked and preserved onshore.  These days, the fishing industry is much smaller, just a handful of small boats catching mainly lobsters and crab. The old herring boats have been upturned, coated in tar, and are now used by local fishermen as storage sheds.  The sheds are almost iconic, architecturally and culturally ‘rough diamonds’ but lovingly restored and maintained.  Recycling at its best.  On one of them is the sign, ‘An old fisherman and the catch of his life live here’.  Yes, we are called to the task of making the rough ways smooth.  Today.