Advent 2025 - Week 4 (Dec 21-23)

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Advent, Week 4 (December 21-23)

"Give me your hand" might be counter to how we usually respond to fear, but what if fear can result in connection instead of isolation? Joseph sets aside his fear of rejection and shame in order to stand in solidarity with Mary, shielding her from harm. Their bond makes them each stronger.

We don't live out our callings in isolation--our communal flourising depends on each person stepping into their calling despite their fear. How can we offer support to one another? Where can we reach out when fear makes us feel isolated? And can we use our power and privilege, like Joseph, to stand in solidarity with people whose lives are at risk?

This week's readings:

Matthew 1:18-25

Isaiah 41:5-10

Visual images for the week

In Too Deep

by Nicolette Faison

Inspired by Matthew 1:18-25

I Am With You

by Lauren Wright Pittman

Inspired by Isaiah 41:5-10

This week's poetry... Tethered

When we were children, we fell asleep

with walkie talkies tucked under our pillows.

All that separated us was a bathroom,

a hallway, a few feet of empty space,

but as children, even small distances can feel like miles.

So after the parents whispered prayers over our skinned knees

and spelling tests, after they kissed our sweaty foreheads

and tucked us into bed,

we’d pull the walkie talkies out from under our pillows.

We’d roll the dial on the top of the transceiver.

We’d sputter that invisible tether to life.

And with a few crackles in the quiet of the night,

you’d whisper my name.

I’d press down the button.

I’d promise I was close.

As an adult, I don’t know what ever happened

to those blue-grey walkie talkies.

But I know,

that even today,

if the monsters in the closet feel too real,

and you whisper my name,