Cozy

See, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble; the day that comes shall burn them up, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. - Malachi 4:1

I feel advent coming - the readings are getting pretty dark along with our approaching winter days. Just saying, even though it’s weeks until December 21, I am having a hard time accepting how early it gets dark every day!

A few years ago, the Scandinavian concept of “Hygge” became popular. Hygge means something like cozy in Danish. In Swedish it’s “Mysig,” and these are the words used to describe the comfortable hunkering in they do as the days get short (and in Sweden, they get REALLY short). They conjure up the image - or more, the feeling - of candles and fireplaces, warm socks and comforters, comfy couches and hot chocolate. Hygge is the way Scandinavians get through the winter - focussing on the good changes that challenges like a long, dark winter bring.

I wish everyone had the opportunity to enjoy a hygge winter. But I know that all those cozy comforts are not available to everyone. I’m thinking about how on December 19, the annual Homelessness memorial will be held on the square, remembering all those who died without comfortable, hygge homes. I’m thinking about some of our neighbors are still out in the woods in tents as I write.

Malachi’s warning about rough times ahead is a significant warning. He’s saying that things are going to get really bad. I’ve had some really bad times in life, and I’m sure you have, too. Just as a cold, dark winter is inevitable, life inevitably comes with its bad times.

But Malachi also assures us that for those who know and receive the love of God, the sun of righteousness shall rise, with healing in its wings. God’s got enough abundant hygge, love and peace to go around, providing we share it between us and among us.

Sometimes Advent is referred to as the little Lent. In both seasons, we go into the darkness awaiting the arrival of new life. May we remember that even in the darkest times, God’s sun is just over the horizon. And may we always be mindful of the needs of others, finding ways to share our comfort with those deeply in need of it.

Our readings for this Sunday are HERE. Note that during ordinary time, we’re using “Track 2”