December 9, 2020

​Daily Lectionary Readings for Year B

I usually get up at 6 am to get ready for the day.  At 6:30 am some smart technology in my house automatically turns on all my lights.  I open up my computer just after 7 to check email, read the news, and read the lectionary texts.  Not often, but sometimes, I turn on the radio.  

I tried something different this morning.  Lights off.  No computer.  No electronics.  No radio.  Just time in the early morning to be present.  Quiet time.  It felt holy, as if I was joined by the Spirit and God was speaking in the darkness.

I wonder if this was how Zechariah felt when he drew the lot to enter into the sanctuary to offer incense?  No one was there but him, but perhaps he knew he was not alone.  There would be no better time to let God know his prayers.  But when the angel appeared and sat down beside him, Zechariah was overwhelmed and filled with fear.  God knew his prayer, and the child in Zechariah and Elizabeth prayers would prepare the way for another child of God.  

Have you ever walked into the empty sanctuary and sensed God's presence?  Have you ever turned off all the lights and sounds in your house and felt as though an angel was sitting beside you?  Today might be a good day to prepare to enter into a holy place of your choosing and find sanctuary.  Be attentive to the presence of God.  

Peace,
Dean