It's not that I haven't been getting more and more
comfortable with the Christian calendar, as opposed to any other number of ways
to mark time, over the past several years.
I have. And I love this. But I have to say that I am relieved that on
this day of Epiphany we enter into ordinary time, because it can be exhausting
to always be celebrating something special.
I wrote, just recently, that I was ready for something ordinary. I am.
However, I do have a couple of thoughts regarding Epiphany,
today.
First, I am still learning how to celebrate. We did chalk the door last night. We even blessed each member of our family
with frankincense and myrrh. The kids
were a little disappointed that we didn't have any gold. I am wearing
gold, today, although that was something of an accident. Since it's a feast day, and since someone
suggested that Eastern food was appropriate, I did not argue when a friend recommended
that we eat lunch at a Chinese restaurant.
OK, let's be real. I never argue
when this is the case, but at least it seemed suitable. It's OK if the learning curve is steep.
Second, the lectionary readings and daily office readings
continue to point to the same thing.
Psalm 46:7a, "The Lord Almighty is with us" (NIV). I know the lectionary wasn't written for me,
but I think it's pretty obvious that I need this reminder on a daily
basis.
And so, here I am, starting out my Soul Care Days, just
being glad that God uses ordinary moments, ordinary people, and ordinary time
to come close.
L.
i wish we celebrated more as families, creating a culture of faith, rather than a checklist of faith. I think being more familiar with the calendar, and taking time to know some of the stories and traditions around these days is so helpful. Enjoy some soul care. I'm thankful for you.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with you and think you have put this so well, "a culture of faith, rather than a checklist of faith"... beautiful!
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