Once we change our clocks and return to Eastern Standard Time, a growing darkness will swallow up the sun’s rays a little earlier each evening. While we will miss the long sunny evenings, we are enchanted by the night sky and its stars. As the psalmist wrote,

“The Lord determines the number of the stars and calls each of them by name.”
-Psalm 147:4

As we journey through Advent, we will gaze at the stars and hear from various friends from our congregation, pondering their star’s unique name. Each thoughtful reflection will help us all see Advent and Christmas in new light. Enjoy!

Today’s reflection is from Phil Valentine:

Coming

The star “Coming” reminds me of coming home. Home is where I feel that I am not judged in any way. Home is where I can be myself without inhibition. When I was younger, I used to visit my parents who lived many, many miles away. I always longed to visit them as I found unconditional love there, that never ceased to warm my heart. Coming home can be as simple as coming home from work every day into the loving arms of a spouse, chattering children or even a loving dog. Coming home can mean children coming home from college as parents expectantly await their return for the holidays. Coming to Saint Luke on a Sunday makes me feel like I am coming home. All are welcome with unconditional love and there is no judgement. Make coming home memorable this joyous season, it means a lot to the one coming home!

May the Lord Jesus bless abundantly the one coming home and the ones at home. Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year to all.