Samantha Griggs, Digital Content Manager
Each Sunday evening in December, a tight-knit group of our family friends used to gather in what can only be described as “organized chaos.” Over the years, Christmas lights fell due to our spirited, multi-family football matches. Children’s antics formed the backdrop to adults sharing spiritual truths. We didn’t know it, but our Advent tradition with family friends was forming unbreakable bonds.
Cancer showed us just how unbreakable they were.
One of the beloved dads from our circle fought cancer bravely before finding peace in the arms of Jesus five years ago. In one of our last conversations, Kirk imparted a wish that would forever change the way I viewed Advent. He asked for us to be a consistent presence in his family’s life. Our gatherings never were about maintaining perfect traditions but fostering a presence—being there for each other, in joy and sorrow. As I honor my friend Kirk’s memory, I am reminded of the consistent presence he asked us to have.
Really what he asked for is the essence of what Jesus holds out to us every day. Presence. He came as a baby more than 2,000 years ago. And He is with us always.
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