Grace and Peace

In my faith community the words grace and peace be with you are often said.  In recent months they have taken on a new meaning. By some providential gift of "amazing grace" these words feel like they have become woven into the very fiber of my daily being.  Like the words of the song... "through many toils and tears I have already come and grace is leading me on..."   This has been a year full of news regarding many dear beloved family members moving into seasons of health decline.  It has also been a year of incredible stress and uncertainty in my work life and place of business.  Additionally my own body has betrayed me at times and I have wondered why God seemingly does not heal this body. Still, whatever evolves the Holy Spirit seems to be blessing me with a depth of newfound serenity like none I have ever known.  A dear priest friend of mine laughed with me as we discussed this "phenomenon"...  " Bring it on !" we fondly said in jest.  Perhaps it is no mistake that during the darkest time of year Christ was born and brought light and hope to the world. Thanks be to God! that during any dark times there is the Light of Christ and that the Holy Spirit, the Great Comforter, "covers us with its feathers".   A favorite contemporary Christian song really says it best  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31D2g7t5Bjs
  
May Grace and Peace Be With You this Winter Solstice season.