Friends and Neighbors, 

Advent has me thinking about time. Maybe you have noticed that the birthday blessing I use on Sundays goes something like this "We thank you for the gift of time and that you have come to us in time in Jesus, your son." We confess that God enters into time and the material world to be with us and work through us. Advent calls us to consider how Christ shows up and to be awake to the surprising places we might meet Christ. 

We call the church "the body of Christ". That means that we who follow Christ are one way that Christ is present in the world. I am grateful that Christ showed us that showing up with our wounds and welcoming all kinds of folks is the way to share love. I hold to this as we all navigate this time when there are so many voices seeking to define who "true" Christians are and how they act, vote, and treat others. We are called to be the presence of Christ in this time. 

I am grateful for the traditions passed down through time. I find that the images and words of our worship help us tell the story of God's presence in our time. I am also thankful that I share all of this with a community. We are the body of Christ to each other as we seek to love God and neighbor together. As we walk through time, remember that God is right here with us. Make time to be with your community, to carry on the practices that shape us, and to go forth to share God's love. 

We have many opportunities at St. James to share our time in prayer, study, and service. I hope that you will make time to be with your community and know God present to you in friend and neighbor. I am grateful for a community that challenges me to seek and serve Christ. As we come to the end of the year, I remind you of the practical matters of paying your pledge and pledging for the next year. I also remind you to take time to breathe and recognize that Christ is with you right here in this time.

Peace,

Fr. John Mark