Joy comes when we understand that desperate times cannot prevent the fulfillment of God’s promise in our lives. Even in the night, God is moving us toward better days.

We sometimes live in a full-sun spirituality that can make our eyes ache. We need the respite of night, the salvific hibernation of a rainy winter day, the relief of tears.

Blessed, indeed, are the people who’ve wised up to only having to know one password. That one password relieves the pressure of thinking they can do it on their own.

The rule of law is not oppressive if that rule is grounded in God’s love for all: advocating for the poor, supporting the weak, taking a stand against destructive violence.

From today until Christmas day, let’s pray boldly. Call on God to come. Ask God to shine on you and every person or place that need some light.

I am slowly learning that you can’t conquer a tantrum. When my kids’ emotions get too big for them, I can only enter the whirlwind and offer them a hand: an anchor and a way out.

Sometimes we need the refuge of a strong fortress. But sometimes we need a refuge of a place to rest and refuel, a safe place to nest and bring forth new life.

When we allow our religious practices or political affiliations or ideological connections to give us absolute certainty, there is no room for correction when necessary.

Troubles both public and private are enough to send a person diving back under their blankets. But this very morning, the Day of the Lord is one day closer than ever before.

It’s not all up to me. Or to you, either. When the well is dry, someone else has a drop left to give. That drop is God incarnate, Word made flesh, help in the very time of trial.