| Only remnants remain of our Thanksgiving celebrations, however small or large. Now, we are continuing on the next part of our journey into Advent. The three wise men were definitely pilgrims, being guided towards a very sacred place, a simple manger in a stable, holding the Christ child. Their plan? Following a simple star. They were true pilgrims on a journey, also enduring most likely difficult conditions, an unknown destination, and they only had the three of each other for support, comfort and safety. Where would you and I be if we travelled on our deserted roads without the support of those around us? Many times, our travel companions may come in the form of a stranger, new friend or our familiar and trusted ones. Jesus says, “Where two or three or gathered” I am there. For many years, I, along with three other pilgrims, started on a journey of offering Contemplative Prayer evenings every month at Our Lady of Grace Church in Maryland. We would take turns in preparing the evening’s focus and each of us took the responsibility of leading the group into quiet contemplation. It included thought provoking sharing with each other of our experiences at the end of a 20 minute total silence. I always loved preparing for my sessions and put much prayer and thought into each one, as I know my fellow pilgrims did also. But I was always nervous doing the actual “leading” the attendees into silence. However, whether we had a large group or as little as three, we were still hungry for our journey of being in quiet contemplation with Jesus. So many stories were shared over the years with each other, which gave me hope and strengthened my faith. I dedicate this last week of our pilgrim series to all who gathered for this powerful time with the Lord; and I am thankful to the calling I received (and tap on the shoulder) to participate in this beautiful ministry. It has led me on this journey to what you are reading now. It’s important to remember how critical it is to NOT take for granted the other pilgrims on our journey – the new ones, the faithful ones, and, yes, even the difficult ones. We all teach each other life’s lessons – lessons that God desires us to learn, leading us to the glorious end of our journey – or really just the beginning. Do you think that as the three wise men were travelling, they understood the full impact of where that road was taking them? I believe each of us needs to remember that with each step we take towards our guiding star, it’s leading us on a journey that is unique to each one of us. God bless you as we enter holy grounds during this Advent season. The Christ child is our destiny. Even if we haven’t met yet, I am still strengthened knowing that you are travelling along with me. I couldn’t do it alone! Everyone of you are guiding stars for eachother. | ||
| Your action this week is to share part of this journey during this month with a friend or family member. Tell them how thankful you are for their friendship, love and support. But as I’ve stated how important it is to go a little deeper, this time tell them how they’ve helped you on your journey towards your sacred place. | ||
| “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20 | ||
Start your Advent season and continue as pilgrims, along with the three kings. Click on the below song “Oh Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” to guide your way.
https://youtu.be/iygVMDELa1Y
From God's Lips 