Roses in December

You have no doubt heard that "God gives us memories so we can have roses in December." I think this is also why God gives us Advent. Advent gives us time to slow down and smell the roses.

At this time of year, many people rush around so much they hardly remember what they did from day to day, and then they need January to recover. Maybe if we rush around we won't have time to stop and think about all that has happened to us in the last year. If we don't take time to take it all in, we will miss not only the painful times but also the joyful times. Remember most roses have thorns.

Advent is a time to be mindful of the needs of others who might have empty stockings at Christmas, but it is also a time of spiritual renewal as we await the birth of the Christ Child. Here is a prayer we will be praying next Sunday:

Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. [The Book of Common Prayer, 212]


In peace,
Linda+
The Rev. Linda McCloud
Vicar, Holy Cross Church Episcopal
Billings, MT
406-208-7314
http://www.holycrosschurchbillings.org/
Photos: Confederate Roses on fence;
my sister's perfect pink rose
Marysville, WA 2008