Beloved,

Years ago on a cold December day, I was wandering Gratiot Ave near the Eastern Market in Detroit when I sauntered in to the historic Trinity Lutheran Church. The sanctuary soared with stained glass and stone to a vaulted ceiling of blue panels framed by oaken beams. The choir was rehearsing, and I sat for some time listening to their harmonies resound within that hallowed hall. The lyrics were lovely, so I dropped by the office to ask the woman in attendance if I might purchase a tattered hymnal from the church. She left for a moment, returned smiling brightly, handed me a new hymnbook, and said, “Merry Christmas!” I still treasure this gift, and each morning during Advent, I read a hymn with my boys. As I share with you one of my favorites—Jesus, Thy Church With Longing Eyes—I pray you feel afresh the anticipation and wonder of the season.

Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Kyle Chase, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team