Christmas is a time for memories and remembering. For some, the memories are of beloved family members who have died, and the pain of their loss is still real. For others, the memories are of happier times than we know now, as the anguish of broken relationships or the anxious insecurity of unemployment or poor health cloud this season. We can feel very alone in the midst of all the celebrating and spending.

We need to remember that we are not alone.

A Time for Remembering

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This first candle we light to remember those whom we have loved and lost. We pause to remember their name, their face, their voice, the memory that binds them to us this season.

May God’s eternal love surround them.

 

This second candle we light to redeem the pain of loss; the loss of relationships, the loss of jobs, the loss of health. We pause to gather up the pain of the past and offer it to God, asking that from God’s hands we receive the gift of peace.

Refresh, restore, renew us, God, and lead us into your future.

 

This third candle we light is to remember ourselves this Christmastime. We pause and remember these past weeks and months; the disbelief, the anger, the down times, the poignancy of reminiscing, the hugs and the handshakes of family and friends, all those who stood with us. We give thanks for all the support we have known.

Let us remember that dawn defeats darkness.

 

This fourth candles is lit to remember our faith and the gift of hope which the Christmas story offers. We remember that God promises us a place and time of no more pain and sorrow.

Let us remember the One who shows the way, who brings the truth, and who bears the light.

Remember -- we can all share the spirit.
No one is alone.