In the midst of so much activity, it is easy to lose sight of the reason for the season. After multiple meetings and deadlines, I found myself struggling to enter the Christmas spirit. I felt as if I was crawling into the moment of Christmas, dragging my gifts through life’s circumstances with the hope that with preparation, it would be enough.
The spirit of the holy doesn’t seem to judge our state too harshly. Together, we gathered with all the anticipation we could muster, and God Immanuel met us with joy and hope reborn.
My heart bursts with gratitude for the many people who volunteered to light the Advent and Christ candle, to the choir who sung with power and love, and to every person who joined us in song, prayer, and thanksgiving! Between the two worship experiences and online congregation, hundreds of us celebrated together. And, there were cookies, thanks to Joanie Stultz!
Special gratitude to all who lead readings and prayers, and to the phenomenal musicians curated by our Director of Music and Arts, Joe Williams. I am grateful for the inclusive and dynamic worship that featured God’s beloved ones of every sort. We were graced with lovely angels who floated in on “Angels We Have Heard On High” and we sang together the songs of the season. For the bottom of my heart, thank you, Joe, for a beautifully exquisite, invitational experience.
From “Scandalize My Name”, beautifully performed by Ibidunni Ojikutu and Amy Van Mechelen; to “Give Love on Christmas Day” lead by Indigo Brown; to “I Wonder As I Wander”, by Jon and Scott Palmason, and the choir singing "Christmas Time is Here" by Vince Guaraldi & Lee Mendelson, the beauty of the season flooded the room. Lighting the candles with you and knowing with confidence you carry the light with you blessed my heart. And, “Sleigh Ride” as played by the gifted organist Dr. Stephen Price sent us into realms of joy.
This Christmas didn’t rely on perfect circumstances, or even our best attempts to get into the season. Every year, God is faithful. The Christ child is reborn, and so are we.
This Christmas is a mood that doesn’t end simply because the day is over. It can abide in us as we continue with anticipation and excitement as to what more the spirit has in store for Plymouth Church.
May your life sing with the vibration of hope for days to come. Happy New Year to one and all.
-Rev. Dr. Kelle Brown