John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you…Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

During this season, our community is blessed not only with the Scriptural readings describing the people and events preparing for the birth of Jesus, but also a book of reflections on these readings by 25 members of our parish. These writers lived out the process of deep reading described in this prayer: “to hear, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest Scripture.” The results are extraordinary - revealing how the ancient words of Holy Scripture can guide and inform modern readers seeking to live with love and faith in a world fraught with challenges and difficult choices. Most of all Scripture reminds us that we are not to be afraid. God’s peace that passes all understanding is as close as taking a moment in the midst of strife or anxiety, closing our eyes, taking a deep breath, and remembering God’s love and grace within, strengthening us to replace fear with hope. May reading these meditations, which contain personal epiphanies about God and self in the midst of daily life, bring you peace, joy, and understanding during this Advent season.

Advent blessings,

The Rev. Jane Rohrer, Editor

Thank you to our talented writers!

P.S. The four readings for the day are listed on each page, so you can do some ‘deep reading’ on your own if you want to further explore some of the verses that particularly appeal to you.