I love gothic cathedrals.  The National Cathedral (Episcopal) that sits on St. Alban’s hill in Washington DC was a constant amazement and inspiration to me while Mary Alice, Jennifer, and I lived there for my seminary internship (1979-80).  Every nook and cranny of that structure held a symbol, a sign, a message, and inspiration about something Godly and spiritual.  Gothic seems to suggest a certain amount of darkness, shadows, and mystery.  There’s something about the darkness that intrigues many people, especially me.

In the little church where I grew up, it carried with it a certain mystery as its design carries a supernatural sense about it (however much smaller it is compared to the cathedral just mentioned).  In its intrigue, it carries with it inspiration as well.  In its own darkness, I remember feeling comfort and joy there often.

Throughout the ages, scholars and debaters alike have amiably argued over theological issues such as miracles—usually from the images of Scripture such as the parting of seas, the appearance of manna and quail, the continuance of oil and meal for a widow, and yes, even the healings of the blind, the deaf, the dumb—and in this season we’re in, the virgin birth.  Both sides of these issues raise really good and pertinent points about whether these things happened, or, were merely stories, myths, dreams, or truly miracles.

Somehow, for me, I make a feeble connection with the images of my little home church, and, the great cathedrals around the world.  In the darkness of them all, I find peace.  In the silent and rather desolate corners of these sacred places, I find answers to such questions about miracles and powers and the presence of God.

Here’s my answer to the truths people seek.  Like the darkness that lives in our chancels and naves, I accept them for what they are.  Darkness.  Solace.  Hidden. Unexplainable.  And because of that constant dusky and obscure existence in my life, I find that comforting to know that there is a greater power and peace than me that handles the mysteries of life.  I’m very fine with that, in fact, I’m rather grateful for it!

In a nutshell, I do not need to have an explanation.  God is in control, and He is handling things quite well.

Of course, the world of humanity seems to spiral out of control even to this day, but what ultimately is important is controlled by God.  We’re charged with caring for this earth, and one another.  Okay, so we’re not always so good at doing what we’re supposed to, but with much prayer—with the Holy Spirit’s guidance— we do correct the things that need correcting…most of the time.  This means we need to keep praying for this Holy Guidance.

As the Advent days are almost over, and the great and holy celebration of Christmas is upon us—and as the days reach their darkest—hold to the idea of the prophets that God is the very light that always beats back the darkness (and not the other way around).  In our amiable arguments, God always wins and moves forward.  His truth is what counts, even if it seems a bit hidden and mysterious.  Let it be fine with you too!  Blessed days are ahead.  Pray for them as you pray for the poor.

God loves you and so do we!

Pastor Jim