Advent Greetings …

As we gather this Sunday we begin our Advent journey, a journey which will ultimately find us at the manger in Bethlehem, rejoicing in the birth of a small baby.  But we are not there yet, and the journey isn’t always straightforward.  Particularly this year, some of us might feel the heaviness of what is happening in our world and wonder How can a weary world rejoice?

Some are still wading through the emotions from the referendum decisions.  We are feeling the heaviness as we witness the impacts of a fresh war breaking upon the world.  Closer to home we are in the middle of marking 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.  The Uniting Church is committed to this global UN led campaign as part of our commitment to the equality and safety of all people, and affirms that ‘gender-based violence is against the will of God’.

Sadly, gender-based violence is one of Australia’s most significant social challenges with, on average, one woman a week being murdered by a current or former partner.  One in four women has experienced violence, emotional or economic abuse by a partner since the age of 15.  The Uniting Church remains ‘commited to advocating for a Church and world where all may flourish in equality, safety and respect’.

So in the middle of all this, how do we draw strength?  How do we come to the place where rejoicing might be possible?  Let me share some words I received in an email this week …

‘I find myself drawing strength from the reminder of Advent – the reminder that in a world filled with brokenness and injustice, Jesus enters bringing transcendent hope and a path towards renewal.  This sustains me.’

May you feel sustained this Advent, and may you find a way to rejoice despite your weariness.

Blessings – Heather (she/her).