This is not a peace sign

A bloody end to another peace-less year. The perennial tension in Israel-Palestine has broken into violence once again. Here, Palestinian protestors flash victory signs and chant anti-Israeli slogans. Both sides are launching missiles and young men, both Israeli and Palestinian, are seen on the streets throwing rocks at police forces. Please keep the people of Gaza in your prayers, along with the aid workers, world politicians and UN officials, that they may work diligently to find a common path to peace.

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.

A Prayer

One of the Christmas activities our Youth Min staff oversees is a Peace Prayer Tree. Children are invited to write a prayer for peace in the world. It's not unusual to get indecipherable scribbles or prayers like "Jesus, I would give you a football." Here's a gem. In case you can't read it:

Our

father hoo

wort in heven

I will be my

name my

kingdom

kom I

My favorite is "I will be my name." I like to pretend that this kid is familiar with Moses and the burning bush.

Merry Christmas!

Hey, we have a meeting Tuesday!

Most of the time, they're not too bad. But sometimes, they result in...puppet shows about angels with broken wings.