December, 2011

In the Interim . . .

The days grow shorter and light is less; the winter holidays are upon us. The outdoor decorations come out, the air is scented with pine and baking, and music everywhere invites memories and yearnings.

This is also the time when a million seductive images attest that this time is all about spending and getting and having things. May we see beyond them. May the true spirit of this time be awakened in our hearts.

With Solstice, the most ancient of the holidays, may we celebrate this time of darkness and renew our wonder at the turning of the seasons.

Hanukkah, the miracle of lights, reminds us of the struggles of oppressed people for liberation. May we pray that contemporary Jews and Palestinians be liberated from hatred and violence.

With Kwanza, we are reminded of the ongoing American struggle against the oppression of racism. May this holiday affirm for us all the value of the individual in community.

And from Christmas, may we be reminded that the holy breaks through in unexpected ways, in the most ordinary times and places.

May this be a time when we reach out to one another through the cold and the darkness; a time when we are more aware of the needs of the poor; a time for the comforts of home and the pleasure of friends.

Do something special! Do something for yourself. Do something for someone you love. Do something for someone you don’t even know!

Let us all do something to awaken within us the spirit of the holy, manifest in love, hope, peace, and joy. Let us keep that spirit alive, and may it carry us safely through the holidays and throughout the New Year.

Happy Holidays.
 

                                                                                        Yours in faith,

                                                                                            Benjamin