Get ready to unwrap the 2023 Saint Luke Advent Devotional Series: "All I Want for Christmas." This Advent, our blog becomes a portal to daily reflections from writers within our congregation, each sharing their heartfelt desires and dreams this holiday season. What do you want for Christmas? Our writers’ answers remind us that the most precious gifts aren't store-bought but emanate from the depths of our souls. We hope that these reflections are a blessing to you this Advent season.
Today’s reflection is from Carol Koup. For 52 years, she has been a member of Saint Luke, being introduced to this wonderful church by her hubby, who has been a member since childhood. They were engaged at the time and planning to live in Paoli while he attended Penn Dental; their decision to make Saint Luke their “home” was an easy one, and they were married here. When their sons were young, Carol became involved in Christian Education, taught Sunday school and later confirmation. One of her favorite activities was helping with the Christmas Pageant. Many joyful times were spent helping with the youth group as her sons moved into that age group. When she counts her blessings, she is so grateful for Saint Luke, our pastors and the friends she has made over the years.
LAUGHTER
There is “a time to weep, and a time to laugh” -Ecclesiastes 3:4
One summer Sunday morning many years ago, Pastor Phil left name tags on a table with the instructions: what is your favorite sound? (Each week he asked a question designed to spark conversation among the congregation during coffee following the service.)
Without any thought whatsoever, I wrote: “my sons’ laughter.” During the time of fellowship, when friends inquired at to my choice, I was able to crystallize why I chose that response. Whenever my sons laughed, my heart was filled with joy, and the gloomiest day or worst circumstance magically improved.
Several years ago I was introduced to Christian writer Ann Lamott. As I read her thoughts, one line jumped out at me: “Laughter is carbonated holiness”. An “Aha” moment for sure. Now my favorite sound has expanded to the laughter of 3 grandchildren. When I think about laughter in my life, I realize my spirits soar whenever there is laughter!
Ecclesiastes: 3:4 teaches us that there is “a time to weep, and a time to laugh.” In our world today, we need more than ever times of pure joy and genuine laughter.
Father, God, as we prepare our hearts to welcome your Son, be with us during the conflict, injustice and sadness in our world today, and infuse our hearts with time of “carbonated holiness”. Amen.