Tomorrow begins the season of Advent – the beginning of the church’s new liturgical year. That makes today a sort of New Year’s Eve. As we begin both a new year and – as we complete our journey through the two-year daily lectionary – a new phase of Comfort & Challenge, I thank you for the blessing of your company on these last seven hundred and thirty-five days.

New Year’s Eve is a time for looking both backward and forward. “The Closing of the Year” was introduced to the world 25 years ago as the opening song of the strange and beautiful movie Toys starring Robin Williams. This song performed by Wendy & Lisa captivated me then, and still speaks to me about how we can bring each other love and hope. I hope you enjoy it as I do.

Blessings to you in the closing of one year and the beginning of the next!