The first day of December dawned cold. Underfoot, frosty grass covered the iron ground. And then there was the light -- marvelous, wonderful, promising Light in the Lone Fir Cemetery. That light and the Advent Season spoke to my memory so that I can share my thoughts with you.
A rod shall sprout forth from the stump of Jesse and a branch grow out of his root --
And by his stripes we are healed.
The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light; they who dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them the light has shone.
It was the morning of the first day when they went to the tomb --
On these dark, wet January mornings I will remember this cold brightness and take heart.