In this busy season it can be difficult to find moments of quiet, reflection or stillness.  This week in particular seems to have been packed with places to go, people to see and schedules to keep. Yet in the midst of the activity I have been blessed by moments of stillness. Moments where I was able to fully BE in the moment, to experience God’s presence, comfort and peace.

One of these moments was on Sunday evening during the Festival of Carols. All of the music was phenomenal, and the first piece especially drew me in and gave my spirit rest. The lights in the sanctuary were dimmed, the choir took their places lining the outside aisles of the sanctuary and began to sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel a cappella. As the hymn continued I closed my eyes, soaking in the almost haunting harmonies.

One of the final verses in particular stands out to me. It speaks to me of the hope of Christ’s coming and the power of God to overcome the darkness that clouds so much of what happens in the world today.

O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer our spirits by thy justice here; disperse the gloomy clouds of night, and death’s dark shadows put to flight.

As this season continues, I plan to hold the peace and hope of that moment in my heart and mind and to look for other moments of stillness, other reminders of God’s presence here and now. May you find such moments this season as well!