This Week at Trinity, Beamsville
Friday, December 13, 2019
Dear
Friends,
Heather and I had a sweet reminder of the joy of last
week’s children’s pageant, while setting up the sanctuary. The fluffy white
feather of an angel costume had found its way into the manger. We both said,
nearly in unison, “let’s leave it right there”.
Sometimes joy is easy to come by, and sometimes its
evidence is harder to find. While the hustle and bustle of the ‘most wonderful
time of the year’ is underway, I am mindful that some among us may feel as if
everything is happening around us; that the joy that is supposed to come with
Christmas is not readily available.
I sat with a man this week, at the bedside of his mother who is nearing the end
of a long health battle.
He turned to me and said, “This isn’t living”.
I commend him for his devotion to his dear mom, even when it’s been so
difficult. I wished for words to lift his sorrow. To love is to suffer with.
My little guy has Croup, a cough which sounds more serious than it is.
Comforting James as he struggles to breathe and sleep, all while feeling
powerless to help, has been a challenge. It’s our “first rodeo” as
parents, and I can’t help but think of families who have children with more
serious illnesses.
It just isn’t the ‘most wonderful time of the year’, for all. For many, it
comes with the ache of loss and grief, the stress of family discord, the worry
of financial pressures. Many struggle with depression and loneliness.
Many lament causes which seem too large to affect change, such as the
climate crisis, racism and poverty.
It is okay if your heart is not in a place of joyful celebration this
year.
We’re approaching the longest night of the year, and our hope is to provide a
space of candlelight, comfort and care, for all who could benefit. If you are
able to carve some time for yourself on Saturday night, we will welcome you
with open arms. If you know of a friend or family member who may find it
meaningful, please send them our way, or even accompany them. If you are unable
to join, please do not hesitate to reach out.
“How silently, how silently, the
wondrous gift is given. Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear
Christ enters in.”
Longest Night Service
Saturday, December 21, 2019 7:00 pm
Warmly,
Kassandra Matthews
Student Minister