A bruised reed you shall not break,
and asmoldering wick you shall not quench.

We begin each week -- on Sunday -- with Joan's Reading for Sunday from Sparks of Advent Light.

I invite you to read the story -- slowly, perhaps aloud, and to savor it more fully.

Then, react to it -- what does it mean for you, what excites you, concerns you, challenges you, moves you as you read it?

Is discontent always to be avoided? In his book "Davita's Harp", Chaim Potok speaks of being possessed by "sacred discontent" and offers this advice: " Be discontented with the world, but be respectful at the same time." Can you reconcile Potok's advice with Joan's? Explain.

Share your reflections as you wish and are able ...

Blessings as you continue your Advent journey -- Mary Ellen