In His Love & Light

Have you ever received a Christmas card or other greeting card in the mail and not really paid attention to the message? Have you ever let those humble saints that walk among us pass you by without taking notice? After watching the recent Christmas special of The Chosen in “The Messengers” (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15772866/) and reflecting on the way they portrayed Joseph as a humble servant of God and Mary in their dialogue with each other, it is apparent that oftentimes we miss the message God gives us.

Recently, I learned that my step-grandmother Doris had passed. What I fondly recall about her was her kind heart and humility. When I would visit my grandfather who would have the occasional noontime nap and wait for him wake up from slumber, I would spend time chatting with my “Memaw” Doris. I recalled that she seemed to have a good soul and spirit about her as I reflect back on our conversations about everyday life. When my first “MeMaw” passed, Doris was there to continue to serve as a great matriarch to both families. Her ability to send out greeting cards and remember small occasions such as birthdays was a fond memory. She was a woman of great talents who could quilt, paint and had a love for many crafts and hobbies that would keep her busy. My wife Angela, a fellow quilt maker, loved her soul and spirit as well. Doris enjoyed life to the fullest and was kind enough to give me one of her art pieces of Blessed Solanus Casey, a Capuchin servant of God (https://www.solanuscasey.org/).

Most of all, my grandfather Jack found her after his wife Thecia passed. Doris brought many years of great joy to his life as demonstrated with the great dance picture from my wedding. They traveled together and had many great adventures in their twilight years.

The one message that I always took for granted was the simple signatures in the cards I received where she would sign “Love & Light.” This Christmas season is one of love & light where God humbles His very essence to bestow on us the gift of Jesus, the Son of God made light for all the world. (Jn. 1). We will enter into this Christmas season where we reflect on the Visit of the Magi (Mt. 2) and their visit to the newborn king where they saw his star at its rising.

Next time you receive that Christmas card, stop and look for the message that makes you ponder our earthly blessings we have received as disciples of our Lord. Let us slow down and reflect on those moments that make us want to dance for joy. Your servant Doris reminded us of this during her earthly life. May His “love & light” bring you peace and consolation this season.