It is my most favourite time of the year. It doesn’t have much to do with all the “Christmas-y” things, though I am a sucker for decking the halls (greenery, and candles, and lights, oh my!). For me it has really become about Advent, the season in the Church calendar that marks the beginning of the liturgical year, and is characterized by waiting, preparing, being in the “not yet”, the mystery of things planted but not yet realized…
During this time I am reflecting on both the waiting and preparation in my own life over this last year, and the fulfillment of God's promise of healing as I transition into a season of greater hope, with a future. My journey through the lung transplant process has been exactly that. I found myself in a state of depletion and decline, with my ultimate hope and need being something miraculous: healing. Trusting, waiting, preparing (so much physio and many tests!). Hoping for healing in God's way, God's time took on a new meaning, deeper, more desperate. I clung to his promise of healing, not knowing what it would look like.
Now, three months post-lung-transplant I am amazed at how he fulfilled this promise: the perfect timing of a brilliant match, capable medical team, a relatively smooth recovery, and growing health over this season. It resonates more deeply, this season of waiting, of hoping, of deep joy at what has already been fulfilled in Christ Jesus.
As you celebrate this season, may you reflect on where and how your needs have been met; may you look for the ways that God has manifested his presence in your life.
He is our Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love, always and in ALL ways.
- K. Anna
This is my delightful friend who journeyed into Toronto with me many a time! Thank you, L!