I Believe
The light shines in the darkness and the darkness does not extinguish the light. -John 1:5
As I sit and write this note, the sky is dark, the wind blowing, and the rain smacking up against the window. It’s one of those days in November that can make you nestle into your home all warm and cozy or feel like the weather matches so much of the world these days. It’s a little dark, a little stormy, and uncertainty always right there.
As we prepare to begin Advent, I am drawn to the scripture above. The light shines… and the darkness does NOT overcome the light. That is core to my belief in God. No matter how dark the day or night gets – even on a late November afternoon – the light of Christ will not be extinguished.
A great man I came to know through the United Methodist Church is Dr. Mark Miller. He is Assistant Professor of Church Music at Drew Theological School and is a Lecturer in the Practice of Sacred Music at Yale University. His work is beautiful and timely as the world turns this way and that. A number of years ago, I purchased his song I Believe so I could listen at any time. It’s a haunting song and yet so fitting this dark afternoon. Some of the words from his song are below.
As you read it – what are the words that are repeated again and again? I believe… the sun, love, and God. Sometimes we can’t seem to readily find any of those.
I Believe – Mark Miller
I believe in the sun
I believe in the sun
Even when, even when it's not shining
I believe in the sun
I believe in the sun
Even when, even when it's not shining
I believe in love
I believe in love
Even when, even when I don't feel it
I believe in God
I believe in God
Even when, even when God is silent
Here’s my wish and prayer for you this Advent – hope, love, joy, and peace. If you are at home, I invite you to set up an advent wreath, just for you, or you and your family. It’s nothing fancy – just four candles… any color you want. Each week, or each day of the first week – light the candle of hope, then the next week love – and keep going through joy and peace. Maybe you can pray – Lord, I believe, I believe in the sun, I believe in love, and God I believe in you, I do, help me when it’s hard. Amen.
I will be joining you each week from my own advent candle at home… I haven’t made it yet, but I will. Let’s do it together. I believe, I believe, I believe… no matter what, O Lord. Amen.
Cathy