The Promises of Christmas ~ The Solstice

Happy Christmas (and Solstice) Dear Reader,

Today is not the “Shortest day of the year.”  Today is the day with the shortest period of daylight.  The interval of daylight for this year’s winter solstice is less that eight hours. 

I know that many are impacted by seasonal affective disorder.  I understand that the extended darkness is a challenge for some.  I care deeply for your struggles and pray that you find some comfort.

The promise of Christmas in the bleak midwinter is this:  From here until the zenith of summer the days will grow longer and brighter.  This is the most physical darkness you will know for another year.  This is the turn or the seasonal tide. 

As we celebrate the child who is the Light we are reminded that one day the darkness will be gone for good.  One day the Light will gives us light that consumes the world with its warmth, safety, and peace.  This is the purpose and promise of Christmas.  One day all things will be good again.

So as the Solstice bells ring out remember that we do have something to celebrate.  The Solstice heralds the celebration of the incarnation and the advent of the growing light.

Ring Out Solstice Bells – Jethro Tull

Now is the solstice of the year

Winter is the glad song that you hear

Seven maids move in seven time

Have the lads up ready in a line

Ring out these bells

Ring out, ring solstice bells

Ring solstice bells

Join together 'neath the mistletoe,

By the holy oak whereon it grows

Seven druids dance in seven time

Sing the song the bells call, loudly chiming

Ring out these bells

Ring out, ring solstice bells

Ring solstice bells

Ring out, ring out the solstice bells

Ring out, ring out the solstice bells

Praise be to the distant sister sun,

Joyful as the silver planets run

Seven maids move in seven time

Sing the song the bells call, loudly chiming

Ring out these bells

Ring out, ring solstice bells

Ring solstice bells

Ring on, ring out

Ring on, ring out

Ring on, ring out

Ring on, ring out

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

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