#AdventWord #Light #光 ‘He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.’ John 1:7 ‘Advent and Christmas are the seasons of light. The collect for the first Sunday of Advent uses the language of Romans 13:12 and asks God to “give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 211). We also find references to light in the prophecies of Zachariah (Luke 1:68-79) and Simeon (Luke 2:29-32). The Gospel of John declares that “in [Jesus] was life, and … Continue reading Advent Word 2023 ‘Light’ 光

#AdventWord #Covenant #盟約 ‘I have made a covenant with my chosen one…’ Psalm 89:3 ‘We have journeyed together toward Bethlehem, through all the wonders and worries of Advent. Feet aching, backs bent, head down, we continue walking toward a promise. God has made covenants with us throughout scripture’s love story–promises to protect us, make us flourish, bring victory over enemies, and redeem our brokenness. And yet God’s most comforting promise in this time of uncertainty might be the promise to abide with us, God’s faithfulness and love constantly wrapped around our shivering shoulders. The world will continue to churn with … Continue reading Advent Word 2023 ‘Covenant’ 盟約

#AdventWord #Ponder #沉思 ‘But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.’ Luke 1:29 ‘Mary receives many confusing messages in Luke’s Gospel: You will bear a child. This child will be our salvation. A sword will pierce your soul. Mary doesn’t understand these messages at the time. Perhaps she won’t fully understand for months or years–until she holds her child in her arms, or stands weeping at the foot of the cross. In the time between, she ponders. She holds these words, perplexing and unclear, in her heart. I wonder how it … Continue reading Advent Word 2023 ‘Ponder’ 沉思