RevGals Friday Five: Rejoice!

Mother Laura from RevGals writes:

Can you believe that in two days we'll be halfway through Advent? Gaudete Sunday: pink candle on the advent wreath, rose vestments for those who have them, concerts and pageants in many congregations. Time to rejoice!

Rejoice in the nearness of Christ's coming, yes, but also in the many gifts of the pregnant waiting time when the world (in the northern hemisphere, at least) spins ever deeper into sweet, fertile darkness.

What makes you rejoice about:

1. Waiting?
That there is something to wait FOR - not like waiting for your car to get repaired or waiting for an appointment. There will be a big Par-TAYyyyy one day. You might even call it world-changing.

2. Darkness?
Initially I was going to say whuuuh? because I really don't like the darkness of winter. But darkness is great for sleeping. And, in the midst of darkness, as it lifts, you can enjoy the Light.

3. Winter?
SO many things. The beauty of bare branches against the sky. The way that you can really see the cardinals in the bushes. The crystal clear sky. The cut of the wind. Everything except ice storms. The down comforter on my bed. Cats who are welcomed snugglers.

4. Advent?
Don't really "do" Advent at our present church which is OK. We haven't missed it, to be honest. But I appreciate the concept of waiting, and turning hearts and minds towards the Christ Child, not the presents and junk.

5. Jesus' coming?
David Phelps wrote a song called "No More Night" and it says it better than I can... (OK, the song is a little schmaltzy... but the words are great!)

The timeless theme, earth and heaven will pass away.
It’s not a dream; God will make all things new that day.
Gone is the curse from which I stumbled and fell.
Evil is banished to eternal hell.

No more night. No more pain.
No more tears. Never crying again.
Praises to the great "I AM."
We will live in the light of the risen Lamb.

Now THAT'S worth waiting for!

Deb