Advent Affirmations in a Time of Grief

Receiving the Light of Christ in a Season of Exile

December, 2004

• I am letting the Light of Christ shine on me by choosing to care for my body, my spirit, my mind. Psalm 30:2

• Even though we are changed forever by our loss; we are choosing not to die with our loved one. John 1:5

• Through the chaos and paralysis, Christ’s Light reminds me of what I have left, not just what I have lost. Philippians 4:8

• Even as many of our Christian friends journey to Bethlehem to behold the birth of our Savior; we may need to meet the adult Jesus at Bethany with Mary and Martha, at the tomb of their beloved brother and his dear friend, Lazarus. (John 11)

• When I am running on empty, feel like I have nothing left to give, that’s when the grace and power of God helps me the most. I am not useless. (II Corinthians 12:9)

• Christ’s peace is a gift that is there for the taking, “My peace I give to you.” John 14:27
  

• When it is too difficult to pray, I know that the Holy Spirit is praying for me with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26

• Though it may feel like God is far away, Christmas affirms that God in Jesus Christ lives among us, has “pitched his tent among us” and shoulders our pain and grief. John 1:14