Shannon's Corner

  SHANNON’S CORNER Merry Christmas! As I have been preparing my heart, mind, and body for this advent season I have been studying two hymns, “ Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus ” and “ O Come, O Come Emmanuel . ” How interesting that our prayers today often sound just like that of Israel’s in wait of a savior, ‘ How long O’ Lord? ’  The paradox of this prayer is that it seems a cry of despair, and it is an age-old prayer of hope.  In the paradox of waiting for His birth, Jesus meets us in the wonder, silence, traditions, service, and grief of the season.  How is Jesus meeting you in this Christmas/Advent season?   I enjoyed the road trip I made with Bethann as we traveled to New Castle, PA to do a three-hour training for those folks who serve at City Rescue Mission.  Connecting with these folks, hearing some of their stories, and even meeting some who know my family, a cousin and my aunt was wonderful.  Plus getting to spend time ...