Advent Photo Challenge 2019 - Warmth
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A Reflection by our Deacon, Don Burr.
WARMTH
The local temperatures have been playing tricks on us; though I guess that’s New England… one minute it’s bitter cold and then next the windows my Suburban are rolled down and it’s fifty degrees (not this week though, since the truck needs a new muffler.) And yet, there is something about this season when warmth takes on new meaning. I would imagine most people would agree, heat and warmth are different things… beyond that of verb or noun.
When I think of heat I think of temperature. Warmth, on the other hand is the feeling one may experience while gathered around a campfire with family and friends. The warm glow and or feeling we enjoy when we light the candles of an Advent wreath; in anticipation of the promised Savior. The way the house feels with a wood-stove going after coming in from sledding or shoveling snow. The extension of a warm greeting as we meet someone in town, at school or on the train to work. The way one’s heart grows two sizes when they witness holiday joy for a little one.
And, at the same time, we must acknowledge that this time of year can be a particularly cold and less joyful season for many folks.
Have you ever wondered about the idea that a match alone cannot make the fire which creates warmth; it needs another flame or friction.
The fact is, in the best of times or the worst…we need each other. Someone has to light the campfire or bring wood in to feed the stove. There must be someone to set the candles out and remember to the light wreath. Someone must be willing to reach out a hand to greet our neighbors; this is critically important at school for those who may feel left-out.
What makes us feel warmth? When have we extended a warm welcome; or on what occasion has someone blessed us with the same? When have we missed that opportunity?
Our word for the week of 12/15 is warmth.
Do you have a photo to share which illustrates warmth? If so, GREAT, because the Advent Photo Challenge is back!! Send us a photo of something that represents that word to you. Show us the warmth you're finding in this season.
As we prepare for Christmas, this is a way to help us look for signs of God entering the world.
We will share the pictures on Instagram and Facebook pages - look for moments as you move throughout your day and send us a pic to [email protected] or text to 203-529-1244.
Tags: Life Together