Fear Not, the Angels Said

On the first Sunday of Advent, it is fitting the theme for our Advent by Candelight event was angels.

Angels play a critical role in the Christmas story, first appearing to Mary and Joseph and later to the shepherds. Humans were a bit freaked out by their holy presence so the winged wonders always told the Earth people to remain calm. They were only delivering a message from God. Not trying to invade the planet.

Don't think that's the Bible verbatim, but close, I'm sure.

So angels were among us this evening in decorations, in the pastor's message, and in songs.

The way our event works, church ladies volunteer to host a table of 8. They decorate it just beautifully – angels were the theme this year, as seen in centerpiece above – and provide the dessert and a small parting gift. Since we are allowed and encouraged to bring guests, I brought my friend Cindy.

We enjoyed music by the Aspiring Acapellas group first. A very entertaining and talented quartet who provided songs and humor for a half hour. Good stuff.

We also had hors d'oeuvres and a special Advent / Angel message, and more music. And, of course, dessert!

M-m-m, cheesecake! We definitely didn't go away hungry! It was a really nice time and I'm glad my neighbor could join me!

It was also a welcome distraction. Hubby's family received some shocking news the other day when they learned his cousin's wife died suddenly and, obviously, quite unexpectedly. She was only 50 and just hadn't been feeling well. Scary as heck. And so sad for her husband (Jim's cousin) and their two daughters (just in their 20s) and grandbabies. I know Jody will spread her angel wings wide to love and comfort them.

I ran into one of Jim's aunts after church today and we both ended up hugging and crying in Wal-Mart. We just can't get over it. Just too young and too much of a shock.

Then tonight we heard more devastating news about another loved one who is very sick.

This is going to be tough holiday season for a lot of people. I'm going to do my best to focus on the Advent message of hope.

And the words we sang tonight from Hark! The Herald Angels Sing...

Hail the heav'n-born Prince of peace!
Hail the Sun of righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
ris'n with healing in his wings.
Mild he lays his glory by,
born that we no more may die,
born to raise each child of earth,
born to give us second birth.