To commence another year afresh...
In this year's Advent, the calendar commences with candles set against a backdrop of night. The darkness provides solace; it can shield us when concealment is necessary. Similar to God's assurances, stars shine brightest in the darkest hours. Jesus Christ accompanies us in the form of a vulnerable human infant.
During Epiphany and Lent, we traverse the parable of the widow and her lost coin. On the table, nine elements stand – two mice, an intrigued cat, and a solitary coin waiting to be found. In Lent, akin to the widow, we sweep and create space to unearth precious items that may have been misplaced, lost, or hidden.
As Easter unfolds, we encounter broken bread and spilled wine. The curtain is torn, opening a path to the holiest of places prepared by our Great High Priest. He arranges a feast for us from within himself in the presence of God. Ascension and Pentecost follow, marking the "hot" Sunday eagerly anticipated by every child, as the Holy Spirit visibly intertwines with the narrative of the year.
On Trinity Sunday, three spoons engage in a graceful dance of pouring into one another. They also spill into the world, working mysterious magic akin to tiny grains of yeast permeating sixty pounds of flour (Matt. 13:33). In Ordinary Time, this season of verdant growth after Pentecost, we observe the dough "growing," not invisibly, but gradually, demanding almost excruciating attention and patience.
Come All Saints, the broken loaf symbolizes the saints and martyrs whose stories inspire and fortify us. Numerous pieces mirror the multitude of people worldwide who share one loaf (1 Corin. 10:17).
As the year concludes on Christ the King Sunday, we enter a phase of tranquility and anticipation for Advent anew. We marvel at how Christ employs his power and authority to heal and restore.
Wishing you blessings for another year of traversing the paths,
Barbara