Scripture
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
— Psalm 27:1
Reflection
When my son, Alex, was very young, he spent a week in the hospital. Much of what happened in those days is a blur to me now, but I always remember the day a woman came into our room and handed me a blanket that had been handmade by a volunteer. Whenever I wrapped Alex in the blanket, he would immediately relax and fall asleep. No matter what age you are, there is something comforting and safe about wrapping yourself up in a warm blanket, especially as the weather turns colder.
Talk Together
What brings you comfort when you are afraid?
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for the comfort and warmth of your love.
Activity
Think about making a baby blanket for a local hospital or women’s shelter. You can a try no-sew fleece blanket (directions are on the Internet) or, if you know how, crochet or knit a blanket. Another option is to find a way to bring some comfort to someone in need this Advent, perhaps a friend or neighbor who has lost a loved one, or a sick member of the parish. You can also visit a nursing home to brighten up the day of patients there.
