First Week of Advent, Sunday, November 29, 2020
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.”
Isaiah 60:1
This photo is uniquely “Richmond,” with views of the James River, Potterfield Bridge and Manchester Bridge, and our city’s distinct skyline. I am struck initially by the beauty of the light. We cannot see the light, but we know that it is there behind the building, enabling not only our vision and perspective but everything that the light touches. This is a great analogy for our faith, and a reminder that our Lord is with us in these difficult times—for us as individuals, families, communities, and cities.
The year 2020 has been a year where chaotic events such as COVID-19, a presidential election, wildfires, violence, and protests have been in the forefront of our minds. These events have changed how we work, worship, and live. What is our focus? In the scripture reading of Isaiah, we are reminded we need to be seeking the light. God is the light. He guides our lives just as the sun starts each day. Through all of our struggles, we need to remain focused on God’s foundation. Our church family may be a source of light in dark times. The light can be support, kindness, and caring for one another. Starting each day with the perspective of this photo would be wonderfully refreshing, exhilarating, and inspiring. May we approach this Advent season with the same perspective, knowing that the Lord’s glory is ours.
The Belding Family