Where Hope Takes Root

The Advent candles in our church sit on a tree root. A simple piece of wood, shaped by weather and years, carrying the memory of a tree that once stood strong. From this root rises light: one flame after another. Today, this image speaks to me more deeply than ever.

The Aging Tree

The Old Testament reading for the Second Sunday of Advent shows us a tree stump (Isaiah 11:1). Something was cut down; something that has reached its end. Yet Isaiah tells us: from this very stump, new life will begin. From this old root, hope will return. God’s promise grows quietly, humbly, almost unnoticed, just like the tree root in our church quietly holds the light of Advent. God brings beginnings where we only see endings.

All Things Must Come to An End

There are moments in life when something must end: a familiar chapter, an event, a project or a special responsibility. Isaiah reminds us, “On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse.” Sometimes the place that looks like a stump is the place where God is preparing something new to grow. As Advent leads us toward the light of Christmas, it also leads me into a time of transition. This will be the last complete article I write for our parish newspaper. In the next issue, I will introduce the person who will bring her own words, voice and creativity to our community.

From Old Into New

The new shoot from an old root is a sign of hope that will blossom. I am deeply grateful for all the years of writing, sharing and reflecting with and for you. May this Advent bring us the courage to trust small beginnings, the tenderness to welcome change, and the hope to believe that God is growing something new.

In Christ, Karen