Interim Pastor John Sublett

Dear Friends - Just before the birth in Luke’s gospel Zechariah announces a new day:

God’s sunrise will break upon us,
Shining on those in the darkness,
Those sitting in the shadow of death,
Then showing us the way one foot at a time
Down the path of peace. (Luke 1:78-79)

Indeed, in the darkest days of the year the light is a metaphor for God’s work in our lives. The theologian of the last century, Karl Barth, referring to Jesus, said, “In his light we see the light and in this light our own darkness.”

We need the light to help us find our way down the paths of peace. We need the light to help us find our way to the full humanity for which God made us.

Our celebrations welcome the Light of the World. By lighting candles, decorating our
homes and church, giving gifts, and singing our songs we acknowledge this new dawn in human history.

I invite you to continue the celebration through Christmas and into the new year. As
daylight lengthens, may the Light of Christ also grow in and among us.

My thanks to all who have made the Advent season so rich with music, Christmas trees
and poinsettias, gifts for those in need, and helping hands on so many occasions. It has been good to share this season with you and I look forward to our Christmas Eve together.

Christmas blessings,
John