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Noticed that the days are shorter, that the darkness is ever growing? The sun rises long after the high school kids are on their way to school and many professionals return home to Barrie from the office in the dark. Some who work odd shifts — perhaps a 7-to-7 shift — would hardly see daylight.

But darkness also permeates our community in many ways: homelessness, housing insecurity, financial hardship, grief and loss, and ill health, just to name a few. They’re all around us, as people we know fight their battles quietly and courageously, often alone.

No matter if you miss the daylight or are facing a struggle, know that the darkness does not overcome us. Last week, we lit the Candle of Hope. This week, we lit the Candle of Peace. Hope and Peace are yours for the taking.

And for giving.

As the old children’s song goes… Jesus bids us shine with a pure, clear light. Like a little candle burning in the night. In this world is darkness, so we must shine. You in your small corner and I in mine.

How can you share the light today?

December.

Kids often look forward to Dec. 1 because it’s the first day they open their Advent calendar and enjoy a treat.

Here’s another take on the Advent calendar: Why not discover the treat of sharing or being kind?

We’re featuring two Advent calendars – one from our friends at Westminster Presbyterian also here in Barrie. It’s a calendar chock full of ideas to share with the Barrie Food Bank. Desperately needed items as well as seasonal ones are on the shopping list: peanut butter, canned tuna, granola bars and applesauce, along with cranberry sauce and a box of easy-to-prepare stuffing.

And here’s another one that doesn’t cost you a cent but can make a big change in the world around you: Being kind.

Give someone a compliment. Hold the door open for someone. Hide a happy note for someone to find. Let a car in while you’re in traffic – often challenging to do when we’re stuck in a jam and trying to get somewhere.

Also on the calendar is a reminder to do something kind for yourself. And the last one – reflect and record how much joy Christmas brings you.

Have a wonderful December and may you experience the joy of giving and being kind. Let you light shine in the darkness.

Jesus – name above all names.

Rev. Joanne’s Advent study discusses the meaning behind the names of Christ:

On Wednesdays, starting Dec. 1, at 11 a.m., Rev. Joanne will lead us as we explore several facets of Jesus:

Week 1: Presidents and Kings

Week 2: The Saviour, and our need for saving

Week 3: Emmanuel in the midst of a pandemic

Week 4: Light of the World

The study takes place at the church. Call the office to pre-register – 705-728-3991.

In our fall study series, we’re discussing the book, Searching for Sunday, by Rachel Held Evans. Our study leader, Rev. Keith Boyer, considers her one of the prophets for the emerging church – the church emerging in an age of spirituality when many people have little knowledge of religious traditions.

The quote “the church is God saying: “I’m throwing a banquet, and all these mismatched, messed-up people are invited. Here, have some wine” causes us to pause, contemplate the generosity and love of God, and respond with awe. Each one of us is on a human journey and as we discover who we are, who God calls us to be  and what God wants us to do in the world, we see God’s faithfulness in our struggles and pain.

But God’s grace doesn’t stop there. Not only are we all invited, God gives generously – in abundance and of the best.

“Brother, sister, let me serve you. Let me be as Christ to you” : It’s more than a hymn. It’s what we strive to be and do. Join us. Let’s grow together.

Join us in person or online for worship or for our fall series, on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1GMOATq5CD0LXR6_jbWW1A/videos.