A Time
for Remembering
Christmas is a time
for memories and remembering. For some, the memories are of beloved family
members who have died, and the pain of their loss is still real. For others,
the memories are of happier times than we know now, as the anguish of broken
relationships or the anxious insecurity of unemployment or poor health
cloud this season. We can feel very alone in the midst of all the celebrating
and spending.
We need to remember
that we are not alone.
A Time for Remembering
This first candle we
light to remember those whom we have loved and lost. We pause to remember
their name, their face, their voice, the memory
that binds them to us
this season.
May Godís eternal
love surround them.
This second candle we
light to redeem the pain of loss; the loss of relationships, the loss of
jobs, the loss of health. We pause to gather up the pain of the past and
offer it to God, asking that from Godís hands we receive the gift
of peace.
Refresh, restore, renew
us, God, and lead us into your future.
This third candle we
light is to remember ourselves this Christmastime.
We pause and remember
these past weeks and months; the disbelief, the anger, the down times,
the poignancy of reminiscing, the hugs and the handshakes of family and
friends, all those who stood with us. We give thanks for all the support
we have known.
Let us remember that
dawn defeats darkness.
This fourth candles
is lit to remember our faith and the gift of hope which the Christmas story
offers. We remember that God promises us a place and time of no more pain
and sorrow.
Let us remember the
One who shows the way, who brings the truth, and
who bears the light.
Remember -- we can all
share the spirit.
No
one is alone.
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