“In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” (First chapter of Luke.) I have experienced a real peace during this Advent season. Although I have been busy, I have not felt an urgency to get things done by a certain time, since the season of Christmas is more than just a day. My annual Christmas letter is not written yet, but I never send it before the first day of Christmas anyway. I have tried to stay with the meaning of Advent—preparation. And most importantly, I have tried to prepare my heart and mind to receive, to have the attitude of asking for nothing and accepting everything with joy and gratitude.

A little song from the HeartSongs singers seems fitting as we Christians celebrate to coming of the Light of the World and our Jewish sisters and brothers celebrate the Festival of Light—“I am sending you light to hold you in love.”