Advent

God, in God's wisdom, has gifted me with living in St. Louis. I love this city and treasure it as my chosen home. While at college, the Arch always welcomed me home and certainly stirred my heart whenever I neared it--almost there! Finally, I've put down roots and can claim the city as my own. The city holds many of the things I love--people, places, food! And a most permanently vital feature: I also have the pleasure of crossing the Mississippi River twice a day (or more), a feat that still amazes me. This is a river with a history and meaning that run deeper than its waters. Today, I welcomed a stupendous sight. The cold weather has caught up with the mighty river and there were ice floes among the barges this morning. Photographer Bob captured this photo and was kind enough to let me show you. This is my (frozen, frosty) city, no less beautiful in the dead of winter than it is in full spring bloom.

As Advent draws to a close and we make our final preparations to welcome the Light into the world, let us embrace the gray twilight and take stock of our blessings. They are present, even in shadow. The light is on the horizon! Come, Emmanuel.