The Season of Open Arms

In my Advent prayer group this week, we closed with a prayer from Kate Bowler titled “A Blessing for Open Arms.”  There is one passage that resonated deeply with me:

Blessed are you,
Agreeing to stand still long enough
To let your eyes adjust to the darkness
Until the starlight begins to appear,
The dawning of God’s promises.

My memories of Christmas are full of joy and light, love and family, snow and cookies and gifts.  When I think of Advent, however, my heart and mind turn to the dark of night, candles, stillness, waiting, and singing songs with loved ones.  To prepare for the coming of Christ, we remember the Gospel stories of Mary and Joseph, angels and shepherds, wise men, prophecies and promises.  We call ourselves together and recall how God’s arms opened to the world in the birth of Jesus.

Since the start of the school year, our students have been steadily growing and making new discoveries in their studies, activities and relationships.  Our teachers and staff have walked with them, challenged them, comforted them and celebrated their accomplishments.  In this Advent, we have come together to reflect and pray, to prepare for the celebration of Christmas by opening our hearts and arms to what God has promised. 

We are blessed to have so many opportunities for our school communities to share the Christmas story!  I hope you can participate in the concerts, programs and activities in our schools, and that you are inspired by the gifts and talents of our students who bring them to life.  May we all open our arms to the joy and hope this season brings, and carry us all into a new year of purpose and growth in Loving, Learning and Leading.

May God Bless us all in this Season.

David Fremo