Through Advent we are looking at Psalms, today at Psalm 85.   Sometimes in the midst of trouble, someone’s word of comfort can lift a person’s spirit.  In this psalm it is clear that the people are in a period of trouble, but the psalmist expresses God’s faithful presence and comfort and God’s word of peace – shalom.  We, too, have been in a difficult period, and although we can now see some hope with the promise of vaccines against COVID-19, this psalm reminds us that our reliance on God is essential.  This longing for shalom and God’s promise is the essence of Advent – waiting on the coming of Christ.  (NOTE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are livestreaming the early service only, using a chamber choir but having no congregation.  NOTE: The video begins with the Children’s Moment, but after starting it you can scroll back to the beginning of the service if you want to see the entire service.)