Finding light during a bleak midwinter with highlighted community events

In 1872, Scribner’s published Christina Rossetti’s poem, A Christmas Carol. Her lyrics point to the difficulties and darkness of the season: “In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan. Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone.” As I watched the roaring winds this weekend and experienced power outages, it felt like a bleak midwinter. But I was inspired by the way Valley residents came together to help each other, give advice, chainsaw and buck trees, and support the utility workers who brave the weather to reconnect the grid in hazardous conditions. There was light shining in the darkness, and it spread into the community from each of us.

Christmas can be both magical and overwhelming. Here in Alaska, the season is dark and cold, punctuated with moments of breathtaking beauty, as when the aurora displays light the sky. We wouldn’t be able to see the light without the darkness. In December, the pace of life feels faster, gifts seem more expensive, and it can be hard to maintain focus and connection to what matters most. When I remember that Christ was born in a stable, that He is the gift, and has told us what he wants from us, I can strengthen my connection to him. I feel more peace.

“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Christ is “the true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:9). We seek to turn to the light, not just in the dark of winter, not only at Christmas, but in every overwhelming moment. If Christ is the gift, I join with Rosetti in asking, “What shall I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. What I have I give him, give him my heart.”

Here are several highlighted opportunities to increase connection and “Light the World” with Christ’s love this season.

Colony Christmas Nativity Display

As part of Palmer’s Colony Christmas celebration, there will be hundreds of nativities on display at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 560 W Bogard Rd in Palmer. Hours are Friday, Dec. 12th, from 3 pm - 7 pm; Saturday, Dec. 13th, from 11 am - 7 pm; Sunday, Dec. 14th, from 2 pm - 7 pm. Community music performances will be on stage throughout the event. See ccnativity.org for a schedule.

Messiah

Attend a free concert. The Mat-Su Community Messiah will perform Handel’s Messiah at the Glenn Massay Theater this Sunday, December 14 with performances at 2 pm and 7 pm. The concert was postponed due to the high winds and power outages last weekend. Selections highlight the birth, ministry and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concerts will last about an hour.

Giving Machines

Check out the Light the World Giving Machines. This month, December 12-31, there will be giving machines at the Midtown Mall in Anchorage. These big red vending machines contain a variety of needed items you can donate money to supply in support of 6 local charities, including Catholic Social Services, NeighborWorks Alaska, Kids Kupboard, the Community Pregnancy Center, Downtown Hope Center, the American Red Cross, and global projects through Lifting Hands International.

Since 2017, Light the World Giving Machines have raised over 32 million dollars. The machines are funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so that 100% of donations go to the charities. The machines accept all major credit and debit cards.

There will also be live community performances at the Light the World Giving Machine stage at the Midtown Mall in Anchorage during the last two weeks of the month. You can see an updated calendar of events and schedule online at givingmachineanchorage.org.

JustServe

Engage in community service. JustServe.org connects local charities, non-profits, and needs with volunteers by zip code. You can find service opportunities that match your skills and availability. Parents and youth leaders can serve with kids.

Amity Scoville is grateful to live in the Butte where it’s not windy, and for a trusty woodstove. She is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.