Dear CCOV Family,
We have just a week and a half to go, and then it is Christmas already! Some prepare by shopping, baking, wrapping gifts, traveling to or receiving family, and attending parties. Others struggle over the holidays because of stress, medical issues, world troubles, pain, and grief. Instead of singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” some may be sighing “In the Bleak Midwinter.” When I served as a chaplain at the Beatitudes Campus, we used to have a “Blue Christmas” service where folks who were having a difficult time could come and simply be reminded that God was there. Other places may call this kind of worship a “Longest Night” service, because we are near the winter solstice and the year’s least amount of daylight.
While we haven’t had this kind of service at CCOV yet, I do want you to know that I am aware of the struggles so many of you have been through this past year and are currently experiencing. I wish I could provide neat answers for you, but I cannot. What I can tell you is that I will stand with you and pray with you. I hope you will call on me when you need to talk or you need prayer. And I know that our church family is deeply caring and will also circle you with love.
For many, this Christmas may not be at all like ones before. We may not be able to participate in the same beloved traditions, and our nostalgia may prompt tears. One thing I can say is that the real message of Christmas is that God’s light shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it, even when it seems like the darkness is winning. We have ultimate hope because of the coming of Jesus. You are not alone.
Peace,
Rev. Sandi