A day of Celelebration

Dear All

We are just a month away from the shortest day of the year. Soon the sun will be returning and the daylight will gradually take over the darkness. This always seems and sounds a lot more dramatic than it actually is. Does it really make that much difference in my life whether it gets dark at 5pm or 6pm? Well I recently realised it does.

As some of you may already know Graham and I are entering into that age old commitment called 'marriage'. The date we picked for our happy event is 2 April 2016. This is very significant, not only because of the traditions represented in holding a wedding, but because one has to pick the right light and locations for their wedding pictures. I did not realise this until I was enlightened by our chosen wedding photographers.

Luckily we had picked a date after the clocks go forward.

Also luckily, we decided to take the majority of the pictures between the church and the reception. This should give us two hours of daylight to work with. Apparently to make us shine the lighting has to be perfect.

This all left me wondering. When Jesus said 'I am the Light' did anyone questions the time of day or year. Of course not, it is assumed that Jesus's light shines in all circumstances. So my prayer here is:

"Lord, the light of your love is shining
In the midst of the darkness, shining
Jesus, Light of the world, shine upon us"
(Part of the hymn by Graham Kendrick — Shine Jesus Shine)
And with Advent quickly approaching, I am reminded (by Wikipedia) that it is a season observed in many Western Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.
Very similar to that of a bride to be making preparations for the celebration. I guess with our wedding only a little less than four and a half months away, it is natural that I have it on my mind. Also naturally I am filled with gladness and excitement.

I hope you all find a reason to be happy and glad.
Blessing to you all.
Diane