𝐀 𝐌𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃 𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐒

Today, December 21st, marks the winter solstice and the longest night of the year. For many, the coming Christmas season brings joyful celebration and respite from bleak winter days. Yet, for those missing loved ones due to death or distance, this time of festivity and family can instead awaken profound grief and loneliness.

This reminds me of our forebearers in faith who understood the sorrow of darkness and the anxiety of waiting. Generation after generation desperately anticipated the arrival of the Messiah who the prophets foretold would pierce the gloom like the rising morning sun after the longest night. Isaiah proclaimed, "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone!" That prophecy was fulfilled on the first Christmas as our infant Savior's cries rang out in lonely Bethlehem. The Light of the World had dawned at last, and that darkness of our sin and death could not overcome it.

This is why we celebrate Christmas!

Yet, amid festive cheer and holiday jubilation, for those deeply missing those they love this year, it's like being plunged into the darkness again. Satan will tempt you to reject the hope and peace God offers. Many may even succumb to that temptation.

If this is you, know that you are not alone. The Light of the World is with you still, Immanuel--God dwelling among us--is still ever-present, binding up the brokenhearted. And we at St. John are here for you. I'm here for you, too.

Though the night stretches long, joy comes with the dawn. Take comfort in the words of our Savior, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life." (John 8:12)

For those struggling through the holidays--whether you are a member of our congregation or not--know that I am always available to you, even if just to listen. Everything is confidential. Email me at [email protected] or phone me at the office: (507) 283-2316.

God's peace to you this Christmas,

Pr. Phil Booe