There are some rewards to getting out of bed at 3:30 a.m., writing and recording a new Dial Hope message, getting in my car and driving to the hospital by 6:30 a.m. to spend some time with a man before his surgery scheduled at 7:00 a.m., where I offered a prayer of encouragement, hope, and trust...  I love the quiet of the morning hours and the natural beauty of the sky as the darkness gives way to light; a crescent moon rides high above the horizon.  Then, as I was walking toward the elevator in the hospital I overhead a religious conversation.  One employee said, "Thank God it's Friday," and immediately another employee said, "Amen."  With my ever-ready sense of humor I said to myself... 'There's a sermon there somewhere.'

Friend of Dial hope, Christmas carries more ritual, custom, and tradition than just about any other day.  Coming at the end of our calendar, Christmas is a signpost.  Not only do we celebrate, but we also take stock and note the passing of time, and the sure, irreversible ebbing of our lives.  Taking stock at the beginning of a new year - really, seriously taking stock, often motivates us to 'travel light'.  It forces us to travel with fewer possessions and more trust.  Traveling light in 2010 is the message from this passage in Matthew 11;28-30.  Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are 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."

Prayer:  Loving God, remind us that we are born with nothing and we leave this earth with nothing.  May this knowledge encourage us to work for causes that will transcend our short time on earth and leave a lasting legacy.  As we travel light, open our eyes to the challenge of the Messiah, the reality of the cross, and the assurance that Christ makes the yoke easy and the burden light.  Through Christ our Lord.  Amen.