The two hardest tests on the spiritual road are the patience to wait for the right moment and the courage not to be disappointed with what we encounter.

— Paulo Coelho

Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

Patience is not easy at this time of the year! Just look into the eyes of children waiting for Santa; enjoy the smile of lip-smacking little ones waiting for the latkes to finish cooking. See the anxious faces of those collecting to help the needy as they wonder if they are doing enough to make a difference in the lives of others. This is a joyous time of year for many faith traditions; it is also a time of year that opens us up to a season of waiting — and some of us struggle with waiting for … well, the unknown.

Holidays and holy days are filled with anticipation and wonder; they are also filled with worry and doubt.

We light candles and wonder if prayers will be answered.
We wrap presents and hope that they are appreciated.
We sing in silence and pray that our notes of grace will be heard.
And we wait.

For what do you wait this season? An end to a difficult year? A celebration of survival? Patience is not my strong suit. It is the thing I pray for the most. To listen more. To wait trusting in grace. To allow the unfolding of The Plan.

However you bring the year to a close, however you celebrate and recognize holiness, my prayer for all of us is that we will find a few moments to be still; to light the flame of hope; to give a little deeper and to reflect a little more on all that brings us together. To seek out our similarities in a way that minimizes differences.

To have the courage to patiently sit in the season of waiting and courageously enter the holy unknowing, accepting the invitation of an encounter with grace.

Enjoy the sacredness of the season!
Grace-Fully Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Monthly Affirmation: I am patient and courageous in all things!

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington celebrates the seasons of holiness within all sacred paths. If you would like someone to walk with you into an encounter of grace, without judgment, give us a call at 215 260 1611 or email us at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com.