December is upon us, with the traditions, gatherings, expectations, calendars that may be packed as well as hearts that may be packed with a variety of memories. Thus it is during this month that I’d like to encourage us to turn our minds and hearts towards the perspective of mystery.
In our Unitarian Universalist tradition, we honor the free and responsible search for truth and meaning. We value intellectual exploration and rational thought. Yet, we also open ourselves towards the importance of mystery in our spiritual lives. Mystery invites us to embrace the unknown, to acknowledge the limits of our understanding, and to open ourselves to moments of awe and wonder.
The holiday season, with its interplay of darkness and light, is a poignant time to explore this sense of mystery. As the days shorten and the nights lengthen, we are reminded of the cycles of nature, the ebb and flow of life, and the mysteries that lie beyond our comprehension.
Whether we’re lighting the Menorah for Hanukkah, the Kinara for Kwanzaa, or the Advent candles in anticipation of Christmas, we are participating in rituals that connect us to something larger than ourselves. These rituals, rich in symbolism, invite us to reflect on the mysteries of life and the spiritual lessons they offer.
The twinkling lights that adorn our homes and streets are not just festive decorations; they are symbols of hope and resilience during difficult times. They remind us that even when hope may be hard to find, there is a light within us that cannot be extinguished. It was in this spirit that in the summer of 2020, many people adorned their houses with their holiday lights and decorations and kept them up for a good time afterwards.
As we navigate this holiday season, let us embrace the mystery and the wonder it brings. Let us find joy in our traditions, peace in our reflections, and hope in our shared journey. And may the light of our Unitarian Universalist principles guide us towards a future filled with love, justice, and compassion.
With blessings and joy,
Rev. Michelle