November 27:  COMFORT
"Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30

Reflection by Lacee Santos



The artist crocheted miles of fishing line for these sculptures. He plotted and planned every millimeter; precisely placed, stretched, and lengthened the lines into intricate, intentional patterns. Coaxing the loops into place, he created implausible depth out of such a simple medium. Light and shadow play on the strings, ever changing as the day progresses, gently revealing a new angle, a new dimension. I have watched these subtle changes as the days wear on, the months, this year. It is never the same; the lines have not moved, the loops remain where the artist intended, but my perception, and the play of light, shadow and space is constantly changing. 

 This year has been marked by challenge - medical mysteries and financial disasters intensified by acute homesickness and ever-apparent reminders that I do not belong. As I have sought God's will and hoped for some whisper of comfort amidst so much struggle, I have found these sculptures encouraging. I am reminded I cannot comprehend the beginning from the end; one moment, one vantage point cannot capture the entire truth. I echo the plea of the Psalmist, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name." (Psalm 86:11). Although I do not understand my path, my Creator does. Jeremiah 6:16 says, "'Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls." 

Trusting God is leading me, I walk the fine line of faith, hoping if I stay on the path God intends, He will see me through. Each step feels
shaky, and I sense the valley of the shadow of death looming below. As I cry out for help, Jesus gently comes along side to walk the line with me. "Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me." Seeing my weariness, the Artist of my life offers to stay with me, share the burden, and teach me how to bear up under it. Throughout this long and winding road, I find comfort in God's steadfast presence, and gentle, patient guidance. In this season of good tidings of comfort and joy, may you find hope knowing God is with you, wherever you are along this path of faith.                                            Lacee Santos


Think Outside the Manger  is a daily Advent devotional written and produced by members of St. Anne's Episcopal Church in Tifton, GA. Visit www.stannestifton.com to learn more.

You have received this email because you have expressed interest in St. Anne's. Manage your subscriptions by clicking the "Update Profile/Email Address"  link at the bottom of this email.