Advent Message from Dawn Dawson

The season of Advent is upon us, the time of preparing and waiting for the Christmas season to begin. As I reflect on the year that was, I realize there is an abundance to consider. There were great joys but also times of turmoil and chaos. In reflection, I'm reminded of the hymn "Light Dawns on a Weary World," a beautiful composition that resonates with the essence of Advent and lends hope to our hearts.

The lists we create for our preparations and multiple events can make anyone weary this time of year. On the four Sundays of Advent, we light candles to focus on hope, love, joy, and peace. These four simple words have such great meaning when we pause and reflect on each one weekly. Taking the time once a week leading up to Christmas to reflect on these four words can rejuvenate our souls and may lead us to be energized for our Christmas experiences.

Light reveals what is going on around us, love grows in our hearts as we acknowledge or pray on what the light has shown and then hope will bloom, possibly in the form of action. If we each can find the love which brings hope, we can find our inner peace. A time when we take a deep breath and feel the weight of the world come off our shoulders. It is a “let go and let God” moment we may treasure. The peace that comes from knowing you did your best, or after a well-deserved break you will try again. A true peaceful feeling brings joy to all around us.

The tune for the beautiful hymn, Light Dawns on a Weary World was presented during a Hymn Society Gathing in the Community of Christ temple in Independence Missouri, a location known as a peace church, so the composition was entitled Temple of Peace. The poem, or words written to accompany this tune, proclaim the feeling for peace. The final phrase of this hymn is inspired by the words found in Isaiah chapter 55 and were crafted to create a sense of peace making through worship, “We shall go out in joy, and be led forth in peace, as all the world in wonder echoes shalom”.

Any place you find yourself in this Christmas season, you can be present with joy so all of those around you may follow your example and feel a sense of peace. Let the light of the season dawn upon you, heralding the birth of the peaceful one. Rejoice in sharing sincere wishes for a Merry Christmas and peaceful New Year with all those you encounter.

Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and the wonder of Christmas.

Dawn Dawson
Mission Centre President Team