Welcome to the December Archive. You are welcome to read the entire archive, or find a topic on the list below that is of interest to you. Just click the link, and you will be taken directly to the day it was written. Enjoy, and may you know God's peace as you read His Word.
You are welcome to use these writings or pass them on. All we ask is that in all things you remember the Author and give Him the glory, and remember this vessel which He has used to bring them to you. Peggy Hoppes
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Scripture on this page taken from the World English Bible which belongs to the public domain.
A WORD FOR TODAY, December 2024
December 2, 2024
“Then little children were brought to him that he should lay his hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, ‘Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these.’ He laid his hands on them, and departed from there.” Matthew 19:13-15, WEB
I was once a preschool teacher. Being a preschool teacher means coming up with activities that meet the abilities of a variety of children. My class was very small, but we worked on similar projects as the rest of the school. Some of the children were older, some younger. One day we made scribble snowmen. We began by scribbling with a white crayon on a sheet of blue paper. Then the children looked at their scribbles to find what looked like a head where they could glue eyes and a nose. Then they added red and green buttons on what looked like the body to make it look Christmassy. I wasn’t a huge fan of this project because I like order, and quite frankly some of the children could not “see” a snowman after they were done scribbling.
The children knew we were making snowmen when we began the project. It was interesting that the children who were more advanced in drawing ability had more difficulty with the free form intention of the project. They automatically drew circles for the head and body, added the eyes and nose. They did not like scribbling; they wanted it to be a clear picture of the snowman. This was fine, the pictures turned out great and the snowmen were very cute. It just goes to show you that people of different gifts and abilities are able to succeed at different times and in different ways.
This is very true of our spiritual journeys. We do not all have to be in the same place at the same time, and we certainly all do not have the same gifts. There are some Christians that are mature in their faith and others that are just getting started. There are those who have discovered their gifts and are using them daily to glorify God and others who are just beginning to see how abundantly God blesses His children. We need to understand these differences and learn how to love one another despite them. A mature Christian should never consider him or herself better than another Christian because they have a better understanding of God. We are brought together by the power of the Holy Spirit to guide and encourage one another. It is amazing how much we can learn from those who are not as far along in their spiritual journey, or how much they can remind us of the grace of God.
I’ve heard it said that new Christians make better witnesses than age old Christians. The reason for this is the fact that the new Christian has a passionate heart for evangelism, and they aren’t stuck on the details. The grownup Christian often trips over his or her knowledge, concerning themselves more with the doctrines of faith and rather than speaking the simple word of God into the lives of those who will hear. It is necessary to grow and mature, but we have to remember that all children of God have gifts, even when they are just tiny babies. And sometimes the babies can do things better than the adults.
There was nearly a year between the ages of some of the children just in my class at the preschool, even more if you consider the other classes. While a year seems like nothing to adults, at preschool age, even a few months can make a huge difference. The older students’ motor and critical thinking skills are more developed. They are more vocal, and they have developed their sense of identity that helps them project more clearly onto a page their vision of the world. They understand things better such as body parts. The five-year-old is more likely to draw limbs and facial features, while a four-year-old’s person is out of proportion with missing body parts.
Yet even the younger child always had something to add to our class and they could do many things as well as the older children. They were an important part of our group, and I am glad when I could find activities that encouraged them in their abilities. This is how it should be with those who are mature in faith. Rather than finding fault with a young Christian’s understanding of God, we should be finding their gifts and encouraging them so that they too will use their gifts to the glory of God. Too often we try to squelch the fire that burns in the hearts of those who are new to faith because we expect them to be just like us. But Jesus loved the little children and reminded His disciples that to them belong the Kingdom of heaven. It is in the little children, both in age and in faith, that we see the love of God so clearly and are encouraged to receive Him with joy.
“The next day, he saw Jesus coming to him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, “After me comes a man who is preferred before me, for he was before me.” I didn’t know him, but for this reason I came baptizing in water: that he would be revealed to Israel.’ John testified, saying, ‘I have seen the Spirit descending like a dove out of heaven, and it remained on him. I didn’t recognize him, but he who sent me to baptize in water said to me, “On whomever you will see the Spirit descending and remaining on him is he who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.” I have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God.’” John 1:29-34, WEB
Jesus sends us out into the world as lambs among the wolves. This image makes us think about the sacrificial lamb, and we put that expectation on our own ministry. We expect to be persecuted and even willingly act so that we can wallow in our suffering for the sake of Christ. We speak boldly but without grace. We bash people with the bible and forget that Christ calls us to love. We wear our faith on our sleeves, display our generosity to be seen, and pray loudly like the Pharisee in the Temple who wanted the sinner to see his righteousness. It is no wonder that the world sees Christianity so negatively, since we Christians can be pretty unchristian.
Though we should not do anything to bring persecution on our, we know that there is persecution in the world. There is a group in China called “Eastern Lightning” that is deceiving the Christian fellowships by becoming part of the group as if they have been saved and are growing in faith. After months or even a year of building trust, they convince the leadership to go to other villages to share the Gospel. Once they are separated from the group, they are kidnapped, beaten, and even killed, leaving the small village churches without any leadership. One story tells how four missionaries were drawn away from the fellowship and once in the new village they were convinced to split up to do more ministry. “If you each visit separate villages, more will hear the Gospel.” When they were alone, they were vulnerable.
Christian missionaries are like lambs being sent in the midst of wolves. They are often in danger, not only their ministries, but their lives. Jesus sent His disciples in groups of two or more. Two disciples provide the physical, spiritual, and emotional support needed so that they can witness boldly for the Lord. Unfortunately, we do not always follow this pattern, often running off to strange and dangerous places on our own, trusting that God will protect us. He will take care of all those who serve Him, but that protection does not mean we may not suffer.
The Lord does not send us out as lambs to be devoured by the wolves but reminds us to be shrewd in our ministry so that we can serve those whom God is sending without being deceived. Christian missionaries in China have been deceived by people who come from Eastern Lightning that they have grown to trust. Their misplaced trust has led them to the slaughter. This happens, and as Christians we must trust that God will either protect us from these wolves or use our martyrdom for His glory. That doesn’t mean we should go looking for trouble. We don’t need to be the sacrificial lamb. The Lamb of God was the final sacrifice.
Jesus is the Lamb of God. During Advent we await the coming of the Baby in the manger, but we are constantly reminded that He came to die. The Lamb of God is loved by the Great Shepherd, but He was sent as the Lamb sent to be sacrificed for our sake. We are sinners, and our own sacrifices will not save anyone. The work we do and the suffering we face would not make a difference in the world if it were not for Jesus Christ and His cross. We may be lambs among the wolves, but He is the Lamb who reconciled us to the God who will protect us, deliver us, and if we do die for His sake, receive us in heaven for eternity.
Lectionary Scriptures for December 8, 2024, Second Sunday of Advent: Malachi 3:1-7b; Psalm 66:1-12; Philippians 1:2-11; Luke 3:1-14 (15-20)
“This I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense to the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11, WEB
We have an open house for family and friends every year on the second Saturday of December. The date of the party is very late this year, so you would think that I would be ahead of schedule, but it seems like I am far behind. We started the process of decorating before Thanksgiving, but I still have much to do. I’ve made some changes to my displays, some of my items are getting old and harder to set up, and replacing items is becoming more difficult because Christmas aisles in the stores are already empty. I get very distracted when I have a million things to do, so I jump from one task to another without really getting everything finished. I do this every year, so I know it will be fine, but it is still frustrating to see how much I have to do in the next ten days.
I just love to make my house look beautiful for the holiday. In the process of decorating, I also have to clean. Just as I think I have the clutter under control, I discover dust. When I clean up the dust, I realize that I need to vacuum. By the time I finish those tasks, clutter has accumulated again. It takes constant vigilance to complete the work that has to be done, but even then I am sure I will have to continue cleaning to keep it looking nice.
All of this is in preparation for a time of joy and friendship, of happy times and pleasant experiences. We do this in expectation of the Christ child. On top of all the preparation, we have parties to attend and programs starring our little ones who sing with great passion and gusto even if they are a little out of tune. We light our homes with Christmas lights to break up the darkness of the night and fill our kitchens with the most delightful smells of Christmas cookies, cakes, and other goodies. We listen to Christmas songs all day long. I can’t help humming to myself, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” as I go through my day.
Yet, what does Christmas look like? To the world it is Christmas trees and Santa Clause and perhaps even a nativity scene here or there. It is “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night” but how does that line up with scriptures like this one from Malachi?
In this week’s lectionary, we meet John the Baptist who does not portray a typical image found in Christmas cards or children’s stories. He is rough, wild, and harsh. He cries out in the wilderness for the world to repent because the Kingdom of God is at hand. Isn’t it funny how we prepare for Christmas by overspending, overdrinking, and overeating, but John brings us a message that is completely different.
Malachi foretells of John’s coming as a witness and messenger to prepare for the coming of the Lord. However, the messenger won’t bring a happy story or expectation of a silent night. Instead, Malachi warns that the coming of the Lord will be sudden and that He will come like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. Something is going to happen when the Lord comes and it will mean transformation, cleansing.
These are two very different images of cleansing, however. It takes a great and hot heat to refine metals, a heat that is almost unbearable even for the refiner. For the element being refined, it means destruction of everything that is impure, burned away by an unimaginable heat. This is not a typical image of Christmas for us. Neither is the launderer’s soap. Today is laundry day in my house. There is bound to be some garment that will need extra care. I will have to spray the item with a prewash solution and perhaps scrub it a little before throwing it in the washer to be cleaned.
One image, the refiner’s fire, is harsh and distant. Though the refiner must remain close enough to watch the metal while it refines, he does not become actively involved in the process.The fire does all the work. On the other hand, the launderer is thoroughly involved with the cleansing of a garment, handling each item with the special care necessary. We are reminded by these two images that our God is both distant, refining with fire, but also very near, intimately involved with our very souls. He cleanses out the impurities in ways that might seem harsh, but He also does so in ways that are gentle.
When the refiner and launderer are finished, the item is pure and clean. God’s grace makes us pure and clean, but we never seem to be complete. The reality is that even though Jesus finished the work of salvation, and that salvation is eternal from the moment we are baptized, we are also continually being refined and cleansed by our God until the day when He will come again. It is like my housework: there will always be something to do until it is really finished. During this time of Advent, we long for the peace and joy that comes with the child in the manger, but we should never forget that we are longing for something even greater: the Day when Christ will come again.
God has always had a plan for us, but we have not done well to stay on the right path. We need to hear the words of the Law and the cry of John calling us back to life in God’s kingdom. Adam and Eve failed in the Garden of Eden, and we fail today. Even then, however, God is faithful to His plan. He knew that human beings would need to be saved, and He promised to do so when the time was right.
Advent brings us to the moment when that plan became flesh and blood. The birth of Jesus was a carefully orchestrated series of events. God planned every detail long before the day Jesus was born. The story began hundreds, even thousands of years in the past as God foretold of His birth through the patriarchs and the prophets. The story includes not only Jesus, but families whose stories are woven throughout the history of Israel.
John was just one of many. John’s mother Elizabeth was very old, the wife of a Levite. Zechariah, John’s father, was a priest who served in the Temple. They had both almost lost hope in having a child, Elizabeth’s childbearing years had long since passed. Yet, they continued to pray for the blessing of a child. One day when Zechariah was serving in the Temple, an honor that came to him by God’s grace, an angel came to him. Zechariah trembled in fear, but the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zacharias, because your request has been heard, and your wife, Elizabeth, will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.”
Zechariah was so taken aback by the statement that he responded, “How can I be sure of this?” We will hear similar words from Mary, but for Zechariah this was the wrong question. It showed doubt and a need for control. However, can we blame him? After all, he was elderly; he was so old that having a child would be a strain on both his wife and on him. Would they be around to see the child grow? Would they see him successful? Would they see him married? Would they see him even walk and talk and laugh?
When John was born, Elizabeth did as she had been told; she said that the child’s name would be John. The people who were there for the happy occasion were shocked. After all, it was customary to name the first born after the father, so the child should have been called Zechariah. Zechariah asked for a writing tablet, and he wrote, “He is to be called John.” And so, it was. Then Zechariah’s voice returned, and he sang the song of praise recorded by Luke. His words are a prophetic psalm of grace. He foretold the coming of the Messiah and blessed the child. The song tells of John’s place in the unfolding story of God’s salvation, as the one who would prepare the way of the Lord. For Zechariah, the Lord was God. We know that the Lord is manifest in the child for whom we are waiting and preparing: Jesus Christ.
Zechariah spoke these words by the power of the Holy Spirit, not his own, continuing the prophetic heritage that had been pointing toward the coming of the Christ for generations. The psalm reflects the promise found in the prophets, as we hear in the passage from Malachi. John came to cry out in the darkness to prepare for the coming of the light. Zechariah knew by faith that they were on the edge of a new day, the dawn of a new beginning. His doubts long since passed, Zechariah gave his beloved son to the Lord to do as had been planned so long ago.
The focus of the holiday season for many is stories and myths, parties and gift, yet they criticize Christians for believing the stories of Christmas, as if they were myths. There are characters that we love and characters that we hate. We wonder at the way things happen, but some of the details are so extraordinary that it is hard to believe them to be real. The nativity is story, His story, but in this particularly cynical world, it is just a story. Christians are criticized for their religious focus, but Luke thought it was essential to include historic references to place John in history, to put him in the context of people who lived at that time.
John’s story is ridiculous and hard to believe. John was born to elderly parents and was likely very young when they died. Though he may have been raised by family or friends, his adult lifestyle was so unusual it is reminiscent of stories of feral children or myths like Romulus and Remus. We might assume that John is little more than a myth, like the story of Romulus and Remus. Luke’s historic references in the life of John help us place Jesus in history, too. Luke’s nativity story is a report of an event that changed the world. Even though some of the details seem unbelievable, we can be assured that the birth of Christ is real and is worth our time to know and experience it in this world.
John the Baptist was the end of an era. He was the final prophet to live and die under the Old Covenant. He came, as was promised, to point the way to the One who would make all things new. All the prophets were tasked with the same message, “God will save His people.” Some of the earlier prophets spoke to the very real needs of their own people, but in doing so, God also revealed the ultimate promise, “A Messiah will come.” John was not really different than those who came before him, and yet he was much different. John met the Salvation of the world face to face. God gave the words of hope and warning about the coming of the Day of the Lord to the other prophets, but John saw the fulfillment of those promises in the flesh.
Advent is not just a time for warm fuzzies or getting ready for the festivities of the season; Advent is a time of repentance. Repentance means turning toward God, renewing our faith and hope and trust. When we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, we forget that Jesus came to bring forgiveness and transformation. He came to cleanse us, to make us new. This is what those who see the Christian Christmas as nothing but nice stories miss. The do not see that Jesus is the fulfillment of thousands of years of promises.
Paul had an incredible ministry. His travels took him all over the ancient world and his preaching founded churches in many cities. Paul had a passion for the Gospel, and he wanted the world to know the love and mercy of God found in Christ Jesus. He wanted to save the world. Actually, he wanted the world saved by God’s grace. So, he traveled extensively, faced persecution, hardship, hunger, and even shipwrecks.
Paul’s concern was never about numbers. He did not preach the Gospel so that pews would be filled in churches. He did not teach about Jesus so that congregations would grow larger. He did not invent programs or focus on external appearance that would bring people through the door. Paul cared about the hearts of those who became Christian under his supervision. He cared about their souls. He cared about their eternal lives.
Paul did not preach the Gospel and take off for a new city. He stayed and helped the new Christians grow to understand their life of faith. He left only when he was forced to move on by those who sought to destroy his ministry and his life. However, even when we moved on, he was never far from his churches. Their well-being was always on his mind. That is why he wrote so many letters: to correct, rebuke, but especially to encourage the Christians into maturity of faith in the Gospel.
Paul’s flowery language in today’s epistle might seem overwhelming. Did he mean to be so gushy when he wrote to the church in Philippi? These verses are part of the formal greeting, which in Paul’s day would have included a word of thanksgiving and reassurance of continued relationship. For Paul, this was of utmost importance. He wanted to remind the Philippians that he was with them in spirit, bound by the Holy Spirit, and that he cared very much for them, he cared for their everyday lives.
One of the tasks I still need to accomplish is my annual Christmas letters and cards. The letter helps me keep my friends and family up to date with what’s happening in our lives. The letters are usually filled with good news, highlights, and remembrances of big events. Sometimes there is bad news to share, news of illness or death, difficulties and hardship. I try to keep the letters brief, so I only share the most important things. I’ve heard people complain about the yearly newsletters they get each holiday season because they think they sound boastful or depressing.
Paul’s letters weren’t always pleasant to hear because he did speak forcefully about living rightly and righteously. Like John, Paul called Christians to repentance. He corrected and rebuked the churches for their failures and failings. He demanded much from the Christians under his care. However, he cared very deeply for each and every one of them. He cared about their hearts, about their souls, and especially about their eternal life in Christ. He is not quite like John because he wrote encouraging words, calling them not just to repentance but to be all that God created and redeemed them to be, living in His grace. He worked to build up the church from the inside, so that the work that Christ began would be perfected and would flow out into the world.
Today’s psalm is one of praise and thanksgiving; it is a hymn of salvation. The psalmist shows us that God’s power is displayed in His deeds. The world sees what He has done and what He can do and they worship Him. We can see in the stories of God’s people that He uses our times of difficulty to make us stronger, healed, unified, and peaceful. After passing through trouble, abundance follows. The psalmist remembers God’s great acts of salvation, which were ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
I don’t know about you, but every year I promise myself that I am going to make this Advent and Christmas much simpler. I promise myself I won’t do too much. I promise myself - and God - that I’ll focus more closely on “the reason for the season.” I fail every year. This year is no exception. I am so busy trying to get everything prepared that I’m not spending as much devotional time as I intended. As I prepare for our party, it seems as though I will never get everything done that I need to do. I suppose that’s why it is good that we meet John the Baptist so early in the Church year. John reminds us of the reason for Advent.
Today’s chosen text is one of my favorites from Paul. In these words, we see the deep love he had for the Christians in his care. He was unconcerned with the incredible things that were happening to him and to the Church in that incredible time. Instead, he thought of the simple grace that was taking them through the everyday experiences of life, drawing them ever closer to the Day of the Lord. I see the same thing in those precious and excellent moments I try to create each year when I work so hard to make Christmas wonderful for those I love. Perhaps we want to try to make our Christmas simpler, but we do what we do to share God’s presence with the world in which we live, shining the Light that has been part of my life. It is what I wish for you, too.
On the second Sunday of Advent, we hear the story of John as he cries out in the wilderness for us to repent and turn to the Lord. His story is not the happy one we expect in a season of Rudolph and Frosty. The Gospel lesson ends with John’s imprisonment, but in John’s cry for repentance we hear the promise of forgiveness. Through his words we are called to return to the God who is faithful to His promise to make us new.
The world may think our traditions are ridiculous, but all that we do during Advent is a witness to God’s faithfulness. That nativity puts Christ in the center of our celebration. The tree is symbolic of life and growth and creation. The lights represent the Light of Christ. Baking cookies is a way of sharing hospitality. Gift giving is a way for us to reflect the generosity of God and to share our blessings with others. We may want to simplify our holiday celebrations, but these traditions are not bad unless we use them as a way to flee from the wrath to come.
During this Advent season we are waiting for the coming of the Lord, both in the manger and in His glory. What should we do? John calls us to live the life of repentance. Paul calls us to be all that we can be. This is not a time to run away and hide or try to find our own way of surviving the coming wrath. Now is the time to turn to God, to seek Him, to follow Him as He works on our hearts, cleansing us and transforming us into something new. By His grace we’ll respond with the psalmist by singing praise to the God of our salvation. We are to repent, but the Psalm invites us to praise the God who has done great things for us. So, let’s make a joyful noise of praise with all God’s people whose stories led to the coming of the Messiah and those who will believe in Him through the stories we tell about His great deeds.
“He spoke another parable to them. ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like yeast which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, until it was all leavened.’ Jesus spoke all these things in parables to the multitudes; and without a parable, he didn’t speak to them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through the prophet, saying, ‘I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from the foundation of the world.” Matthew 13:33-35, WEB
I went to the grocery store this morning. When I drove into the parking lot, I noticed two security guards keeping watch over the store, cars, and people in the area. I also noticed that both of them were playing on their phones. I can’t possibly know what they were doing; it may have been work related, but I suspect they were bored with their job and were scrolling through social media. They were observant, I saw them both scan the parking lot repeatedly, but we are all so connected to the world through our cell phones that it is difficult not to take a peak whenever we have a chance. I’m guilty of this, too. Though I try to ignore my phone when I’m interacting with people, I confess that it is always handy.
I love having a phone to use for more than communication and social media. I love having a camera handy. I used to keep a point and shoot in my purse, but my phone is smaller and more convenient. I love photography, especially wildflowers, architecture, and landscapes. I took over five thousand photos during our last vacation to Wyoming and Colorado. I look for beauty and creative composition. Many of my photos are inspiration for paintings or writing.
I also use photography to record life; this is why I keep my cell phone close at hand when I am out and about. It is amazing how often I find something interesting at the grocery store, like a new product line or an unusual item. I took a picture today of a Christmas ornament that is a gummy pickle. Some old favorites come out with new flavors (not always a good idea!) One year I took photos of interesting Santas. My latest “scavenger hunt” is anything with Bob Ross (you’d be amazed at the things on which they are putting his image, including a toaster.) I took a photo the other day of a plague of grackles (yes, they are called a plague, and anyone who has encountered them in a parking lot will understand why!). A lady accidentally spilled a few pieces of a small snack bag on the ground. We laughed as we both said, “The grackles will love that!” so she spilled the rest of the bag. I recorded the moment, and while the photo is not great, it tells a story.
That’s what photography does: it tells a story. When I wildflower hunt, the story is about beauty, life, spring, and new beginnings. When I take pictures on vacation, I record the things we see and experience, whatever they may be. In Germany, I enjoyed following the footsteps of Martin Luther. In Wyoming I loved telling the story of the critters that live in the National parks. The daily photos I take with my phone help me remember what was happening in this time and place, a historic record of the world in which we live. Today’s photos included a Santa costume in a dry cleaner, a Bluey blanket, seasonal dish soap, and cookie dough that I made. Some of these photos seem so mundane and ordinary, but they are real life.
Jesus wasn’t a photographer, but He was a storyteller. Have you ever noticed how many of His stories included mundane and ordinary topics? He talked about women sweeping, men building, children singing, farmers planting, and people helping people. He talked about bread, seeds, and sheep. He even referenced news stories from His time. These are mundane and ordinary things, but His stories always had a deeper meaning, that’s why they are called parables. My photos may not always have an obvious spiritual perspective, but we can look at the mundane and ordinary things of this world with eyes of faith, seeking God in everything about our daily lives, as much in the products on the grocery store shelves as in fields full of wildflowers and majestic mountain peaks. Take time today to see God in your little corner of the world and share what you see with others so that they may realize that God is everywhere offering His grace through the things of this world.
“By this we know that we remain in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God remains in him, and he in God. We know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and he who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him. In this, love has been made perfect among us, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment, because as he is, even so we are in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has punishment. He who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:13-18, WEB
Sinter Claes. Father Christmas. Santa Claus. Who is he? From whence does he come? And what does he really have to do with Christmas? December 6th was traditionally the day that the Christian church celebrated the feast of St. Nicholas. He has long been identified with the character known in today’s world as Santa Claus. The western image of Santa Claus has become so commercialized that his true identity has been lost in the midst of red coats, flying reindeer, and hearty laughter. In the east, St. Nicholas is the patron saint of children, sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, prostitutes, brewers, unmarried people, students, and he is still honored with dignity and respect in many places. That’s an interesting list of people who look to a gift-giving old guy in a red suit for a revelation of God’s grace!
St. Nicholas lived in the fourth century. Since the earliest biography was written in the sixth century, the information available about him is based on tradition. It is said that he was the bishop of Myra, in southwest Asia, and the story of his life is filled with miraculous events and generous gifts. His feast day was dropped from the liturgical calendar because so little of his life is verifiable. His importance to many people is obvious in the number of relics attributed to him. They were originally buried in Myra, but his tomb was raided by sailors and his bones taken away. We don’t know for sure where his body is buried, although scientific research has suggested that most of his bones are in Bari, Italy, while others are in Venice, Italy and Morton Grove, Illinois. Some other places claim to have fragments.
It is said that Nicholas was orphaned at a young age by wealthy parents. His generosity showed from a very early age. One story tells of a time he threw a bag of gold coins through the window of a poor man’s house (or down the chimney), so that his daughter would have a dowry to marry. The man would have had to sell his daughter into prostitution if it had not been for the generous gift. Nicholas provided the dowries for the man’s other daughters and similar gifts for other young girls. Other stories describe him as a lifesaver for sailors from a storm and three innocent men whose executions were bought with a bribe. Another story tells that one day as Nicholas knelt in prayer in a church, an elderly minister approached him and asked who he was. The young Nicholas replied, “Nicholas the sinner. And I am your servant.” Soon after, Nicholas was made bishop of Myra.
Over the years, the image of St. Nicholas has changed, making him more like a magician than a saint. It was traditional to give gifts to children on his feast day. As Christians began to celebrate Christ’s birth around the winter solstice, Nicholas became known as Father Christmas and the traditions surrounding his feast were moved to Christmas. Children were always an important part of the celebration of St. Nicholas’s life. Ceremonies of the “Boy Bishop” took place on his feast day. A boy was selected to be bishop from December 6th to Holy Innocent’s Day (December 28). This probably came from the story of how Nicholas answered the call into ministry.
The focus on children has continued with the modern image of Santa Claus. Today we use Santa to bribe our children into good behavior, but the stories of Nicholas should be taught with the proper focus. The gifts of St. Nicholas were gifts that saved the recipients from horrible lives, even death. He gave the dowries to the girls, not because they earned the money, but because Nicholas wanted to spare them a life in prostitution. The men who were saved from death were not necessarily innocent, but Nicholas gave them the gift of life. In these stories, we see examples of the kind of love our Lord Jesus had for us. We did nothing to earn His love or deserve His gifts, yet He gave more than we can even imagine.
I have heard several people suggest that perhaps the holiday tradition of giving gifts should be moved back to December 6, then we can return our focus on Christmas Day to the birth of our Lord. There are even some Christians who think we should have nothing to do with the stories of Santa Claus. We could also move it to Epiphany in remembrance of the gifts of the magi. However, there is value to the gift-giving of Santa Claus on Christmas.
I saw a wonderful story recently about a son who asked his father if Santa was real. Hesitant to remove the magic from his much too young child, he asked if the boy really wanted to know the truth, because the truth came with incredible responsibility. The boy said “Yes, I think I am old enough.” The father said, “Yes there is a Santa Claus, but he’s not an old man with a beard in a red suit. The truth about Santa Claus is that he’s not a person at all; he’s an idea. Think of all those presents Santa gave you over the years. I actually bought those myself. I watched you open them. And did it bother me that you didn't thank me? Of course not! In fact, it gave me great pleasure. You see, Santa Claus is THE IDEA OF GIVING FOR THE SAKE OF GIVING, without thought of thanks or acknowledgement. So now that you know, you’re part of it. You have to be Santa Claus too now. That means you can never tell a young child the secret, and you have to help us select Santa presents for them, and most important, you have to look for opportunities to help people.
St. Nicholas teaches us kindness, whether it is on December 6th or Christmas day or an average Tuesday. Gifts don’t have to be wrapped with a bow, they can be actions that help another person. A smile, holding a door for a frazzled mother, taking the shopping cart to the cart corral, giving a bottle of water to a hard-working delivery person, buying a lemonade from an entrepreneurial child, taking a meal to a grieving neighbor, picking up a piece of garbage from the ground, letting someone merge in traffic... The list is endless. Watch today for opportunities to be like St. Nicholas. You might not save a life, but you can change a life with one small act of kindness. We show our love for God and our neighbor by giving gifts, whether they are tangible packages wrapped in pretty paper or moments of connection that shines His light.
December 9, 2024
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil. Cling to that which is good. In love of the brothers be tenderly affectionate to one another; in honor preferring one another; not lagging in diligence; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; enduring in troubles; continuing steadfastly in prayer; contributing to the needs of the saints; given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless, and don’t curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice. Weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Don’t set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Don’t be wise in your own conceits.” Romans 12:9-16, WEB
I don’t love snow, which is why I am very happy to live in Texas. Of course, there is something about the American traditions of snow-covered paths and snowmen. We are all dreaming of a white Christmas, right? I grew up in the Northeast, and though it wasn’t always white on Christmas, it was far more likely than many places around the country. I lamented the lack of snow at my first Christmas in California, though I did not expect it. Imagine our surprise when we woke up to snow on December 26th! We visited Austria for our last Christmas in Europe, and we looked forward to the snow-covered mountains after four years in England where it rarely snowed. The children were very excited about the trip, although I think they were most excited to be able to throw snowballs at their dad.
It is interesting that we have that image of a white Christmas despite living in the American south. There are plenty of snowmen around our neighborhood (we have four in our yard!) and large lighted snowflakes. Some towns have Christmas festivals with ice skating rinks and snowfields made with fake snow. These snowy images are seen around the Northern Hemisphere, especially in Europe. The images of Christmas are much different in the Southern Hemisphere, however. It is winter for us, but those in the southern hemisphere are just beginning summer. We tend to celebrate the holidays with cozy fireside parties drinking eggnog, the people in the Southern Hemisphere are planning barbecues and trips to the beach.
It is doubtful that Mary and Joseph saw any snow on that first Christmas two thousand years ago. The Holy Land rarely sees snow. Jesus’ birth did not actually happen on the 25th of December, and the gospel writers give us few clues as to the actual date. The festival of Christmas was established hundreds of years after the fact, and is simply a day when we commemorate an event that has great meaning to those of us who love and follow the Lord Jesus.
It is a topsy-turvy world. Many people who celebrate Christmas are not even aware of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. They see the Nativity and think of the birth as a nice story, but not a real event. They give gifts like the wise men, but often do it out of duty rather than with a desire to give back to God in thanksgiving for His great gift to the world. They sing Christmas carols, not realizing the importance those songs have to Christians as we share God’s love.
For Christians, Christmas is not simply a secular holiday to party and give gifts. It is a time for us to reflect on Jesus’ birth and to look forward to the moment when we will be face to face with Him forever. The world made Christmas about snowy scenes and Santa Claus, but we can keep His birth in the proper perspective as we live our life. Not only should our Christmas celebrations be different that the world’s, but our whole life should reflect our upside-down attitude.
Many people are surprised to discover that Mary and Joseph did not travel along snow covered paths when they went to Bethlehem. They do not realize that the stable was not covered with snow. Even more so, they do not understand the Christian lifestyle because it is so different than their expectations for the holiday season. The words Paul wrote in this chapter of Romans are difficult. We are to bless our enemies? Associate with the humble? These commands go against everything we desire in the flesh, but it is the life we are called to live. It is the life we can live when we trust in God’s grace.
December 10, 2024
“Remember this: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly. He who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in everything, may abound to every good work. As it is written, ‘He has scattered abroad. He has given to the poor. His righteousness remains forever.’ Now may he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, supply and multiply your seed for sowing, and increase the fruits of your righteousness, you being enriched in everything to all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11, WEB
Modern technology changes so quickly that we often replace pieces before they stop working. That’s what we did a few years ago with a television. The old one was great, but it did not have the proper inputs for the other equipment we wanted to use with it. So, I posted the old one on a recycling/sharing list. Someone was looking for a television, so I contacted the person and offered it to them. We made arrangements to meet, I rescheduled my week, and Bruce took the time on a busy day to take down the old television and put up the new one. I was excited that I could share with someone who needed help.
Then things started to get a little strange. When you make this kind of exchange on a recycling/sharing list, it is important to be careful. The list members are regularly reminded to meet in public places and to never give too much personal information. It would be nice if we lived in a world where we would not have to take these kinds of precautions, but you just don’t know. I’ve watched enough court television to know that you can’t trust everyone you meet on the Internet.
At first, she was willing to meet me after 2:00, which was a little later than I would have liked, but I was willing to accommodate her. I suggested 2:30. She told me she could try to be there by then, but she’d definitely make it by 3:30. Quite frankly, I was not willing to sit in a parking lot for an hour to give her a free television, so I asked her to narrow the time period. She came back with an apology because she’d read her schedule wrong and she wasn’t available that late in the afternoon. “Why don’t I just come to your house to pick it up when I can work it in?”
I am a cheerful giver; I like to share my blessings with people who need help. However, that email stopped me in my tracks. I wrote back that I was uncomfortable with that idea, could we please try to do it earlier in the day. Despite several more emails and texts, I never heard from her again. I sent her one more message, telling her that I was going to visit the store where we would meet and that I’d be there between certain times. If she could make it, she should text me and I would leave my shopping to transfer the television. I finished my shopping and waited in my car until well after the time I promised, but she never came.
It all might have been innocent; after all she seemed sincerely interested in getting a television, any television. She may have told this same story from the point of view that I needed to be more gracious and accommodating because she was having a tough time. Maybe I should have; I had the freedom and flexibility that she did not have. That didn’t mean that I had hours to waste. I was willing to accommodate; all I asked was a commitment to a specific time. Let's be honest, I couldn’t help but wonder if she was trustworthy when she stopped communicating after I refused to give her my home address.
My frustration and uncertainty were overturned, however, when I drove into the Goodwill donation station. The man waiting there was excited to see me, and extremely thankful for the television. He greeted me with a huge smile and happily received the television as if I were giving him a great gift. He thanked me and wished me a very merry Christmas as he waved me off for the rest of my day. In the end, the giving became a joyful experience.
We don’t need the recipients of our gifts to be cheerful for us to be cheerful givers. As a matter of fact, most people who are in need are burdened in ways that make even thankfulness difficult. We are blessed to be a blessing, but we are also blessed to be good stewards. Paul reminds us that it is God who makes the grace abound in us. Sometimes, perhaps even in this example, God took away the joy from one opportunity and restored it in the right one.
Sadly, too many people have experiences like this and will stop being generous altogether. Out of the frustration and uncertainty they will learn that they can’t trust the people who are asking for help. The lesson we should learn from this, however, is that God makes the grace abound in us and we will experience the joy of cheerful giving when we are being obedient to His purpose in our life. He will always make everything right, even when we fail, so that the world will be blessed by our blessings.
December 11, 2024
Lectionary Scriptures for December 15, 2024, Third Sunday of Advent: Zephaniah 3:14-20; Psalm 85; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 7:18-28 (29-35)
“Yahweh, your God, is among you, a mighty one who will save. He will rejoice over you with joy. He will calm you in his love. He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17, WEB
Fear is a powerful motivator. Fear drives a family to escape a burning home. Fear of failure drives many people to work hard. Fear causes us to avoid circumstances, places, and people that are dangerous, which can save our lives. Fear is a negative motivator, but it can have positive results. It can also have devastating results; fear can paralyze us into non-action. A deer in the headlights is afraid of the car, but fear makes it impossible for it to move out of the way. This can happen to human beings who are too afraid to get out of the situation that is causing their fear.
I used to love horror films. I loved to go with my friends whenever a new slasher film was released. We saw most of the “Friday the 13th” franchise movies, enjoying the adrenaline rush of the fear that builds with the background music and the certainty that the bad guy is always just around the corner. We laughed at those movies, too, because we knew that the whole concept was ridiculous. Surely there aren’t that many stupid teenagers in the world? Just as romantic Christmas movies are formulaic, the slasher movies follow their own patterns to get the reaction they want.
I once went to one of these movies with a friend in a theater in a rough part of town. We were looking forward to feeling all the usual feelings even though we knew that it was going to be a terrible film. The experience of fear began long before the movie began, however. We felt very out of place among the other moviegoers. I know I should not base my feelings on stereotypes, but we were truly afraid because the people around us were thugs and were doing dangerous things. There was at least one fight outside the theater that night. We did not enjoy that movie, but fear taught us a lesson: that we should not go to that theater at night, no matter what movie we were going to see.
I don’t go to horror films anymore. I’m not sure what made me stop; perhaps it was that night with my friend. I think having children has also made me stop looking for the adrenaline rush that comes from slasher films. I stopped reading horror books, too, and I don’t find any pleasure in any of the television shows based on monsters or death. I experience plenty of fear as I worry about my children in a dangerous world, I don't need background music or the expectation of a bad guy making me afraid.
We fear death. We fear loneliness. We fear failure. Advertisers take advantage of our tendency to fear by playing on that; they make us fear missing out on something. There was a commercial for an electronics store that bothered me. It encouraged the viewer to shop at their store so that they could “win Christmas.” The point is that the buyer would get the best gifts at that store and that the receivers would think they were the best. The commercial played off the fear that we’ll get the wrong gift or that someone else will buy something better, motivating us to rush out to their store and buy the newest, most expensive gadget so that we’ll “win.” Gift-giving isn’t about winning or losing. Christmas isn’t about winning or losing.
Fear is rampant in our world today, perhaps rightly so. There are very real reasons for us to be afraid. Fear can have a positive impact if it causes us to be more watchful or careful. It can also have a negative impact if we respond with anger or hatred or violence. Sadly, that’s how many people do respond when they are afraid. Many times we ignore the underlying fear that causes us to act as we do. Fear gets covered up by other emotions and actions. Fear is seen as weakness, and in a world where the weak are manipulated and abused, any sign of weakness is buried by attitudes, words, and actions that seem powerful and strong. The rough moviegoers were probably hiding their own fears they would never admit or even realize they had.
Zephaniah gives us the Good News, “You will not be afraid of evil any more.” In a world where so much is driven by fear, this is something we want to hear, but we have a difficult time believing it. We don’t know when it will happen, but we know that we will hear reports of disasters happening to neighbors and worry that it might happen to us. We’ll hear the weather report forecast potentially dangerous storms and fear what might happen to our homes. We’ll hear about another outbreak of violence and wonder if it could happen to us.
We think this good news means that there will no longer be evil, but we can’t see how that will ever happen. We know by faith that the day will come, the Day of the Lord, when God will defeat everything that opposes Him. In the meantime, however, we have to deal with circumstances, places, and people that make us afraid. The promise is a call to trust.
Zephaniah says, “The King of Israel, Yahweh, is among you.” That is the promise of Christmas. That is what we are waiting for during this Advent season. We are waiting for the King to come, both as a baby in the manger and as the eternal Judge and Savior. Because He came, we have no reason to fear.
We’ll still face the dangers of the world, but with Christ Jesus as our King we know that we will receive His promise no matter what happens to us in this world. We might lose our home to a fire or be harmed because someone responds to their own fears with anger, hatred, but we have something that is better than fear: hope. This hope leads to joy.
Advent is a season of lights. We begin with darkness, representative of the darkness of our lives. Each Sunday we light a new candle. As we draw closer to the coming of our Lord Jesus the light grows until that joyous night when we can light the Christ candle and celebrate His coming. Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent, and Christmas Day is coming quickly. We can feel the excitement building. On the third Sunday, we finally have more candles lit on our Advent wreaths than are dark. This Sunday is called Gaudete Sunday, or Sunday of Joy. Though we have not yet reached the Nativity, the light is greater than the darkness and will continue to grow.
Joy is found in our lectionary readings. The book of Zephaniah is hardly joyful. The prophet announced to the people that in His day God would bring judgment to the nations, including His people who had abandoned their faith. Yet, the prophet did not leave them without hope. Today’s reading promises the restoration that will come when God completes His work. Zephaniah prophesies the rejoicing that will go on within the city of Jerusalem.
To the Jews, prosperity meant God was near, misery meant that He had abandoned them. Though God was never far away, it was not hard for them to fear when things began to go wrong. When the nations could overwhelm them with their power, it was obvious that God was no longer protecting them. Yet, God has a purpose for all things, including those times of pain and suffering. They help us to turn to Him, to repent of our sin and look to Him for our needs. God did not intend for the Jews to be destroyed; He knew that He would provide salvation in His time and way. After judgment, God always cleanses His people and purifies their lips so that they will call out to their God. He promised that the day would come when He would bring them home. “‘At that time I will bring you in, and at that time I will gather you; for I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes,’ says Yahweh.”
Our worst sin is that we don’t trust God. It began so long ago in the Garden of Eden, when Eve believed the lie of Satan about the Word of God. She did not trust that He spoke the truth; she saw that the fruit looked good even though God warned it would bring pain, so she decided to do what she thought was best. So did Adam. The Israelites did not trust that God would take care of them. They grumbled in the wilderness between Egypt and the Promised Land. They turned to other nations for help against their enemies. They asked for a worldly king when they had the King of kings as their ruler.
God gives us the freedom to turn from Him, He never forces us to follow Him. He allows the natural consequences of our mistrust to humble us before His throne but hears us when we cry out to Him when we realize He is the only one who can overcome our difficulties. He doesn’t allow more than we can bear, but He does allow enough so that we will remember His faithfulness and trust Him again. Over and over again throughout history, God did this with His people. They were defeated by their enemies and then restored when they turned back to Him. They were taken into captivity, but then were returned to their home when they looked for Him. We suffer our own consequences when we turn from God, but He is always near to respond when we repent and trust Him again. We respond to our fear in all the wrong ways instead of looking to God to get us through.
Instead of fear, God gives us hope. We know that evil will continue to happen all around us, but we do not need to be afraid because God has defeated evil. Whatever happens to us, we know that God has won and that we will receive the eternal inheritance He has promised. In a time of fear and anger and hatred and violence, we have hope because the Light has overcome the darkness. Instead of fear, we are called to live in the joy that comes from being in the Light.
Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, ‘Rejoice.’” Paul is not saying we need to be happy all the time. He is encouraging us to rejoice in the Lord always. In everything we do, in everything we are, we are to live in the joy that is found in our relationship with God; we are to trust that God is greater than anything we might fear. During Christmas we recognize the coming of God in flesh, we honor and remember the child in the manger. However, we aren’t waiting for God to come again. He is here now, dwelling amongst us, walking with us, guiding us, loving us with a tender and compassionate love. We can rejoice in the Lord always, because He is always with us. In good times and bad, we can trust God because He is always faithful to His promises.
That’s what John the Baptist came to proclaim. He came to be a witness to the coming of the Light, to testify to the gracious mercy of God. I’m not so sure we think about mercy when we think about John the Baptist. After all, he is a man who is perceived to be wild, harsh, and demanding. He might frighten me the way I was frightened at that movie theater among those thugs. He was very unusual and acted counter to the culture in which he lived. He lived in the wilderness, wore clothing made from camel’s hair, and ate locusts for lunch. He defied the self-indulgent ways of the culture in which he lived. He did not wear silk or linen and he did not feast at great banquets. He chose a simple life, a life in which he could focus more clearly on His vocation as a prophet of God. He identified with the prophets of old and lived as they might have lived. He preached about repentance and called the people who came to him a “brood of vipers.” There was nothing about John the Baptist that should draw people to him.
Yet, there was something about him that drew the people into his presence. Even the temple leaders came to hear him speak, but many refused to believe that He was the fulfillment of God’s promises. They rejected Him, but they were seeking the Messiah. As a matter of fact, since they were the educated and the religious experts, they knew more about the signs of the coming and they were anxious to see it fulfilled. In the end Jesus did not meet their expectations, but early in the story they saw possibilities with John. Many of them wondered if he might be the Messiah.
John knew he wasn’t the Messiah. In last week’s reading we saw John identified with the Old Testament prophecies as the one who would prepare the way for the Lord. John told them that he would baptize with water, but that the Messiah would baptize with fire. He encouraged the people to be prepared for the coming of the King by turning their lives around. His words, especially those about Herod, put him in prison. Jesus began His ministry shortly after. Rumors trickled their way to John as his disciples questioned what they should do. They were loyal to John, but they wanted to know whether they should follow Him if He was the one?
John sent some of his disciples to Jesus to ask, “Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?” This seems like an odd question coming from John the Baptist, since his story is one of faith even before his birth. John leapt for joy in Elizabeth’s womb when Mary visited her relative. He identified Jesus as the Lamb of God to the crowds. In John’s Gospel, John the Baptist explained to his followers that God gave him a message that he’d know the Messiah because he would see the Holy Spirit descend on Him when He was baptized. John knew that Jesus was the One who was sent by God to save His people.
So, why did John send his disciples to ask this question? Did he do it to prove to his own followers what he already knew? Did he doubt Jesus? Did he doubt himself? Did John question his own ministry? Was he afraid that perhaps he was not the promised messenger? Did he need the encouragement of Jesus that the work he was doing was what God wanted him to do? John was in prison; he was facing his own fears. He wanted to know for sure that he was sending his disciples down the right path.
There are often times when I could use that kind of encouragement, and you are probably the same. Do you wonder if you’ve heard God’s voice correctly? Do you wonder if you are doing what God is calling you to do? Do you ever think that it is absolute craziness that God would choose you for that task? Do you wonder if you can even accomplish it? Do you ever face the fear of what might happen if you fail? Even worse, if you succeed? After all, John the Baptist was a successful evangelist, and he ended up in prison. What might happen to us today? We cry out to God in our fear, doubt, and uncertainty, “Surely there is someone better than me for this!” Did John wonder if he was really the one to fulfill the promise of a messenger? Perhaps Jesus was meant to be the voice crying out in the wilderness and the Messiah would come later?
It is comforting to know that John might have needed encouragement. After all, if he whom Christ called the greatest man born of woman needed to hear that he was indeed doing the work God intended, then how much more might I need to hear it? I haven’t had visions. I haven’t been visited by angels. I haven't had any miraculous experiences in my life to verify I'm doing the work of God. Jesus verified to the crowd, and to John, that John was what he said he was. He was the one crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord and Jesus told them to look for the signs that might reveal the truth.
The religious leaders did not believe. Unfortunately, many of the people who began following Jesus also turned away at the end. Jesus sounded good in the beginning, but He eventually did not live up to their expectations. He didn’t do what they wanted Him to do. They began looking for another. They were looking for the wrong kind of Messiah. They were responding to their own worldly fears instead of trusting that God had a plan greater than their expectations. They hoped for salvation, but their expectations were too low and when Jesus didn’t climb onto an earthly throne, they turned away from God. They didn’t want a Messiah that would change their religious understanding, so they chose darkness rather than the Light.
Jesus had great words for the crowd about John the Baptist. He said, “John was more than a prophet. He was the prophet promised by God.” And then Jesus said that this prophet, great as he was, is less than the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. That’s you and me; we are part of the Kingdom of Heaven. So is everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. With Good News like that, who are we to be afraid?
It isn’t easy, of course. There are still many who do not believe that Jesus Christ was the Messiah, that He is the Judge and Savior who has come and will come again. They will persecute those who shout the Good News of forgiveness to the world. John was beheaded a short time after the encounter in today’s Gospel lesson. Our end may not be so dramatic. As a matter of fact, few of us will be martyred in any way. The things we fear are tame by comparison, but we still have reason to fear.
We have seen the rejection of Christianity in our world; for many, faith is nothing more than a fairytale. Billboards have been purchased by atheist groups with Santa Claus putting his finger in front of his mouth as if he is about to tell us a secret, with the words “Go ahead and skip church! Just be good for goodness’ sake. Happy Holidays!” Some have been offended by this attitude, afraid that the world is trying to steal their joy by diminishing their celebration of Christmas. They are afraid that piece by piece our traditions and practices are being stripped of us.
They can do many things to us, but they can’t steal our joy. Our joy does not come from celebrating Christmas, it comes from being in Christ. It comes from the Holy Spirit whom God has given as a guarantee of the inheritance that He has promised. Our joy comes from trusting in God who has overcome the darkness. We may have valid reasons to be afraid in the world today. Persecution is real. People are dying for their faith. Christianity is under attack in many ways, even from within. Yet, Zephaniah’s words are still true. God is with us, and we have no reason to fear evil. He has overcome everything and has promised that in His day we will share in the inheritance of His eternal Kingdom. Our fears can have a positive impact on our lives as they drive us in a way we should go but let us always remember to trust in the God who will be faithful no matter what happens.
The Psalmist wrote, “I will hear what God, Yahweh, will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, his saints; but let them not turn again to folly.” While it is natural for us to wonder and doubt, the Christian that rejoices constantly will keep his or her eyes on God. If we are following Christ, we will certainly do the things that will glorify Him.
His salvation is near. This is a promise that we see fulfilled not only in the manger, but also in the work we are called to do sharing the Gospel in this world. At Christmas we see how mercy and truth have touched the world, how truth and righteousness have joined together. God gives good gifts, the greatest of which is Jesus. He is the One that they were waiting for, and we are the ones who have benefitted. We are part of the Kingdom of Heaven, greater than even John the Baptist.
Jesus asked the people what they went into the wilderness to see. We can ask the same of those who ask us about Jesus. What do they see? Do they see Christians living in the joy of the greatest gift? Do they see people who are putting on a show with fine clothes and luxurious living or do they see humble obedience? Something drew the people to John’s ministry, and something draws people to us. We might wonder and doubt, but we can rejoice because God is near, and He is faithful. If He has called us to the work of His Kingdom, He’ll provide us with everything we need to accomplish it. We need not fear because we have hope, and with hope comes joy. We can rejoice because God rejoices over us.
The world might not know what they are looking for, but God is ready to show Himself. Let’s be ready and willing to share His grace so that they will see Him.
December 12, 2024
“But we are bound to always give thanks to God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth, to which he called you through our Good News, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers, stand firm and hold the traditions which you were taught by us, whether by word or by letter. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good work and word.” 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17, ASV
Glitter. It is impossible to avoid glitter at this time of year. Greeting cards, tree skirts, and Santa hats are all covered with the stuff. There is often glitter on those adorable ugly sweaters and many use glitter spray or make-up for a special merry look for parties and events. Teachers let their students use glitter to decorate gifts for parents or pageant costumes; even bakers use special glitter to decorate the sweet treats of the season. I’ve never really been a fan of glitter. It is pretty and makes everything look very festive, but it is impossible to get rid of it. I bought a candle ring that happened to have glitter on the edges of the leaves and flowers. The glitter got all over my hands, my purse, the shopping cart, my shirt, and then after I got home, it got all over the table where it was displayed. I noticed glitter in my hair that evening when I looked in the mirror as I was getting ready for bed. I've even found glitter on one of the cats, although I'm not sure whether it was from me petting her or from something she got into that day. We’ll be finding glitter for months after Christmas is over, maybe years!
Glitter may be bothersome, but we should be like it, not in the annoying way we can’t get rid of it, but as having good qualities that stick to everything we touch. We can all have an impact on the attitudes and emotions of those around us. Have you ever had a bad day, but run into someone who is contagiously happy? Somehow their smile makes your day seem a little better. The same can happen in the reverse: our negative attitude can affect our neighbors. So, which should we do?
We can affect the way our neighbors live in the world, too. By being a good example of graciousness and hospitality, we spur others to be gracious and kind. By living lives of thanksgiving, we cause others to count their blessings. By acting on our faith by being generous we encourage others to share. Our good attitudes and actions can rub off on people, hopefully to the point that it rubs off on more people exponentially.
There are many who get rattled and frustrated during the Christmas season. It is too busy, there's too much to do. We run from store to store to deal with crowds and cranky cashiers and fellow shoppers. We are so busy that we burn the cookies and can't get the tree to stand up straight. We get frustrated by the Christmas lights that never seem to work. There are so many things that can make this season not so pleasant. Yet, a simple act of kindness, like holding the door with a smile for someone overladen with packages, can rub off on people. We never know when that one moment might spread some happiness to many other people.
Glitter is pretty and festive, and so we can be. It takes work; it takes a willingness to be happy even when we are rattled and frustrated. It takes a willingness to be forgiving rather than angry. It takes a willingness to be generous with our time, our resources and especially with our love. That love might just rub off and make the world a more beautiful and festive place. The glory we shine will not be like that of glitter, but as that of our Lord Jesus Christ.
December 13, 2024
“Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the assembly, of which I was made a servant according to the stewardship of God which was given me toward you to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden for ages and generations. But now it has been revealed to his saints, to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim him, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; for which I also labor, striving according to his working, which works in me mightily.” Colossians 1:24-29, WEB
The Swedes celebrate Christmas with a festival that lasts for a month. They decorate a Christmas tree with candles, apples, Swedish flags, glass balls, tinsel and straw ornaments shaped like animals a day or so before Christmas. The tree is displayed until January 13, Knut’s Day. The Christmas festival was established a thousand years ago when King Canute ruled. He decided that they would celebrate from December 13 through January 13. On that final day, boys dress up as “Old Knut” and play practical jokes. The tree is taken down and all edible decorations are consumed. The tree is thrown into the snow with a promise to be reunited next year.
The festival begins on St. Lucia Day. Lucia was a Sicilian Christian virgin who lived during the fourth century, when Christians were persecuted for their faith. Lucia took food to the Christians who were hiding in underground tunnels. To light her way, she wore a crown of candles on her head. She was eventually arrested and martyred. No one really knows how the story of St. Lucia came to Sweden, but she is honored with a very special day. On the morning of December 13th, the eldest daughter in the home, dressed in white with a wreath of candles on her head, takes coffee, ginger cookies and buns to every member of her family in their rooms. While she is delivering her goodies, the family sings Lucia carols, songs of thankfulness and hope. December 13th is believed to be the darkest night of the year, so a festival with lights brings hope.
St. Lucia was a virgin and a martyr, known as the patron saint of the blind, those with eye diseases, and the visually impaired. As with all the ancient saints, the reason for this is uncertain. It is said that after her conversion to Christianity, St. Lucia lost her sight or even plucked out her eyes in an attempt to resist sin. One legend says that she lost her eyes during her martyrdom but was miraculously able to see. She came from a wealthy family, but she spurned worldly goods.
She refused to get married, vowing to remain a virgin. A man who wanted to marry her reported her faith to authorities, and she was sentenced to life in a brothel and forced into prostitution. One of the miracles of her life is that divine intervention kept her from having to fulfill that sentence; they could not move her from where she stood. She was then ordered to be burned at the stake, but the fire didn’t touch her. She was finally killed with a sword to the neck. The legends may be true, but she was likely one of many martyrs killed by Diocletian, beheaded in 304 A.D. She was the first saint to become a popular figure among believers, with inscriptions dating from before the fifth century. Two churches in Britain were dedicated to her before the eighth century. She is often depicted by artists carrying a dish containing her eyes.
St. Lucia brought hope to the Christians who were hiding from persecution. She brought hope, not only with the food she shared, but also with her willingness to risk her own life for the sake of others. We wait anxiously through the darkness of Advent for the coming of the true light, Jesus Christ our Lord. The hope we have is because He willingly gave Himself for us, overcame sin and death and was raised to new life so that we might have the hope of eternal life. We celebrate Christ, not only with the tinsel and glitter, but especially with prayer and scripture so that we will draw closer and deeper into His heart.
Paul experienced suffering but he shared his gifts to help others know God with great joy. God blesses us, too, with the gifts necessary to continue the work to share Christ with the world. There will always be things about the Lord God Almighty that we cannot understand, but we do know the most important thing: God loved, Christ died, we believe. We are like St. Lucia, called to shine the light in the darkness of this world. It might be dangerous. It might even lead to our death. But God’s love is so great that we can step out in faith with joy and share His grace with those who need to see God manifest in their life through His Word and through our kindnesses to the people whom God sets in our path.
December 16, 2024
“‘She shall give birth to a son. You shall name him Jesus, for it is he who shall save his people from their sins.’ Now all this has happened that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall give birth to a son. They shall call his name Immanuel,’ which is, being interpreted, ‘God with us.’” Matthew 1:21-23, ASV
Forgive my moment of parental pride: my kids were intelligent, kind, and talented. My daughter’s second grade teacher loved her and was one of many impressed with her abilities. Whenever we met for a parent teacher conference, that teacher gushed about how she was sure to get a full-ride scholarship to Harvard. Over the years, my daughter received awards and exceeded high expectations. She didn’t go to Harvard, but she graduated among the top of her classes in high school and college. She even earned her Master’s degree. My son experienced different but similar expectations throughout his life. “Your children are going to go far,” I often heard. may not be at Harvard, but she's doing extraordinarily well at the school she's chosen and she's well on her way to a successful career. Zack has experienced different but similar expectations throughout his life. When people realize that he’s my son, they tell me how much they enjoy being served by him the place he works. They tell me he is kind, helpful, and good at his job.
I’m proud of my children and I like to hear that they are getting the approval and encouragement they need to succeed. Yet, I wonder about the pressure we put on our children with our expectations. I hope I haven’t done that too much with my children. I want them to choose their own way, but I also want them to do the best they can. It is a fine line we walk as parents. I know some children end up going to the wrong college or choose the wrong career because their parents expect them to follow in their footsteps. Others push their children so hard that they rebel or get burned out before they even have a chance to live. You’d be amazed at how many friends and strangers tried to pressure my children to go to their favorite college. “My school is the best; you should go there.”
If we worry about high expectations for our children, imagine how it must have been for Mary. Her son was not just going to be a leader, or a skilled craftsman, or a learned man. He was to be Immanuel, God with us. How do you encourage and approve of a child who will be a King that will save all God’s people? What do you teach him? How do you act as a mother to God’s own Son? It is hard enough to deal with the daily needs of any child; how do you do it knowing that God has the most incredible plans for him?
Fortunately for us, there are many people to help. Our children have had more than just two parents helping them through their life journeys. Teachers have been encouraging and have taught them so much of what they know. Pastors and Sunday school teachers have given them a glimpse of God’s love. Family members have been mentors and friends have helped them see what they are capable of doing. Coaches, directors, troop leaders, and neighbors were always there to help.
The tradition of the Christmas stocking is a story about helping another meet the needs of children. It is said that a nobleman lost everything: first his wife and then everything he owned. He and his three daughters were forced into poverty. His concern was not for himself: he was frustrated by his poverty because he knew that he could do nothing for his daughters. They had no dowry and would not marry. They had no future because he had nothing to give them. It is said that St. Nicholas knew about the nobleman’s troubles. The girls washed their clothes and went to bed on Christmas Eve. St. Nicholas saw their stockings and filled them with gold. When the girls woke the next morning, they found the gold. The nobleman did not have to worry about his daughters.
We always used our Christmas stockings as a way of hiding tiny gifts for each of us. I usually include some practical items as well as candy and toys. We put toothbrushes, pencils or pens, healthcare items, and other necessaries. Our daughter might get some kitchen items and our son items for his hobbies. These are just a few of the little things we do for our children to help them grow up healthy and happy.
I suppose the same must have been true of Mary. Yes, she knew there were high expectations for her little boy, but she was his mother. She encouraged him the best she could and taught him what she was able. She provided him with “peanut butter and jelly sandwiches” and a new “toothbrush” when needed. She saw to it that He did what was right and gave Him the freedom to discern who He was. And she provided him with relationships that would help him grow in grace. What will you put in your stockings? Will there be practical gifts, toys, or candy? Is there anything you can give that will be a life-changing gift? Can you change the course of another person’s life today by giving a gift that goes beyond all expectations?
December 17, 2024
“He himself sent out a dove to see if the waters were abated from the surface of the ground, but the dove found no place to rest her foot, and she returned into the ship to him, for the waters were on the surface of the whole earth. He put out his hand, and took her, and brought her to him into the ship. He waited yet another seven days; and again he sent the dove out of the ship. The dove came back to him at evening and, behold, in her mouth was a freshly plucked olive leaf. So Noah knew that the waters were abated from the earth. He waited yet another seven days, and sent out the dove; and she didn’t return to him any more.” Genesis 8:8-12, WEB
We keep several bird feeders around our yard that are visited regularly by a variety of birds and squirrels. I can see all three from my desk and confess that I sometimes get caught up in watching the critters that come to visit when I should be working. I love to see the different personalities and I’m always surprised when I see a new or unusual species. We often see titmice, sparrows, cardinals, and finches. We sometimes see woodpeckers and blue jays. I keep a bird book nearby for those rare moments when we have a bunting or other unusual bird. One of the most common birds to visit our yard are doves. We had doves at our old house, too, and even had a pair raise their babies on our porch.
The doves often wait expectantly for their turn at the feeders, though there are always a few that create a ruckus when they are not getting their own way. Most of the birds live peacefully, not only with each other but also with other types of birds. I love to see the small birds the feeder while the larger doves sit on the ground feeding on the fallen seed. Most of the doves seem very patient and kind, perhaps that’s why the dove is seen as a symbol of peace.
Many organizations have incorporated a picture of a white dove in their logo or letterhead. I did a web search on the word “peace” and Google came up with nearly two million pages. As I clicked in and out of many of these pages, most of which were for organizations working for peace in the world, I saw different types of doves. Some of the organizations were familiar and their work has earned the respect of the world. There are some organizations, however, that claimed a message of peace while promoting sick and disgusting pursuits. It seemed like the word “peace” was used as a draw without a real desire to restore broken relationships or bring strangers together.
Doves are a popular figure in Christmas decorations and stationery. Every year we receive at least a few Christmas cards with a picture of a dove. I’m sure we’ve used them ourselves. Doves have additional symbolism to Christians; they are the creature of God's creation most referred to in the Bible. There are about four dozen references to the dove in both the Old Testament and in the New Testament. Often the dove represents the Holy Spirit and is a sign of God’s power and anointing. In Noah’s story, the dove is a symbol of safety and new life.
Imagine what it must have been like for Noah and his family aboard that ark. They had been stuck on that boat with those animals for a long, long time. The weather was terrible, there was nothing to see. The only thing to do was take care of the creatures on board. I could understand completely if Noah and his family thought God had forgotten them. Feeling abandoned and living with only the hope that God would take care of them, Noah and his family had little to which they could look forward.
But God remembered Noah and his family; the rain eventually stopped falling. Then the water seemed to recede. After a time, Noah sent out a raven, but the raven could not find a place to land. Then he sent out the dove. The first time there was nothing. The second time the dove came back with an olive leaf. Finally, the dove did not return. Noah felt hope and knew it was time for them to begin anew.
As we see the doves in our Christmas decorations and cards, we are reminded of many things. “Peace on earth, goodwill toward men” is a popular message at Christmastime and it often accompanies pictures of doves. The dove also reminds us of God’s presence in this world. The dove in Noah’s story reminds us that God does not abandon us; He is faithful to His promises, which gives us a deeper sense of peace that comes from knowing God is always near.
December 18, 2024
Lectionary Scriptures for December 22, 2024, Fourth Sunday of Advent: Micah 5:2-5a: Psalm 80:1-7: Hebrews 10:5-10: Luke 1:39-45 (46-56)
“Turn us again, God of Armies. Cause your face to shine, and we will be saved.” Psalm 80:7, WEB
Bigger is not necessarily better.
It seems like most people go for the big boxes. I suppose they think that the big box will be something extra special like electronics or kitchen appliances. That might just be true, but then again, the gift might just be a gag wrapped in an extra-large box. Bigger is not necessarily better. As a matter of fact, at one party the big box contained a package of hemorrhoid ointment. A small package might just have something that glitters like gold or jewels.
In today’s Old Testament lesson, the prophet Micah foretells the coming of the Messiah. He points to a rather strange place, the very small town of Bethlehem. Though Bethlehem was the birthplace of David and was the site of the tomb of Rachel, it was relatively unimportant when Jesus was born. Bethlehem was not the seat of kings. The people expected the king to be born in a palace and Bethlehem had no palace. The seat of the king was in Jerusalem.
But the One born in Bethlehem was greater; He was the King Israel who was promised from ancient times. Bethlehem was the birthplace of the Everlasting, the eternal One. Though His family would suffer a time of separation, a time of exile, He would return and be the Shepherd for whom they waited. In Him they would abide.
We once lived in a very small town. It was so small that the first time we drove down Main Street, my daughter said, “Main Street is a dirt road!” The town was almost a suburb of a big city, and it was often easier to just say that’s where we lived because no one had ever heard of our town. Though there was growth, with lots of new houses and businesses, that small town will always be small. It remains unique but has been swallowed up by the ever-growing big city.
Our small town would never be famous or a place of great importance; we never expect anyone of consequence to be born there. Yet, you never know when someone from a small town might become a celebrity or even president. Something great can come out of a small box. That’s what happened to little Bethlehem: within her walls the Messiah was born as was promised through the prophets.
Bethlehem is still not very big, and though it is not a suburb of Jerusalem, it is so close that it sometimes seems as though it is being swallowed up by the city. What makes Bethlehem different than our small tow is that we will always remember the city because of its place in the story of Jesus. Something very big came out of that small town. Among its landmarks is one of the oldest churches and one of Christianity’s most holy sites. Out of Bethlehem came a child who grew into the One who came to dwell with us so that we might dwell with God. Bigger is not necessarily better, for in the little town of Bethlehem the Savior was born.
You might have gotten an invitation to a party for this season, whether it is a gift exchange, an office party, a family gathering, or an open house at a friend’s house. Invitations use an abbreviated form of communication, giving only the most important information, answering only the necessary questions. Who? What? Where? When? Why? We try to make our invitations as attractive as possible, so that our guests will want to come. We promise fun, good food, and fellowship, adding a bit of glitz and glamour to the invitation to guarantee that we’ll have at least a few people come to be with us.
Our scriptures for this week are like an invitation. In Micah we learn where the party will take place: in Bethlehem. Bethlehem seems like an odd choice for the party, after all it was a nowhere town. Jerusalem was not so far away, wouldn’t that have been the better choice? Though Bethlehem was a humble place, it was the City of David, the city of bread. It was in Bethlehem that God’s promises would be fulfilled – the Bread of Life, the Son of David. Micah also tells us that the party will begin when the woman in labor gives birth.
The scriptures give us several answers to the question, “Who?” Mary cordially invites us to the birth of her son, whom Elizabeth tells us is Lord. God, Savior, the Mighty One is the Host, according to Mary. The psalmist recognizes the Shepherd of Israel and the Lord God of hosts. Notice how the characters, even God, are described in lowly terms. Mary is humble; Elizabeth feels unworthy of being in the presence of the mother of her Lord. God is described as the Good Shepherd, a rather unusual identity considering the shepherds were the lowest of the low in the culture of the day.
With this invitation we learn that God does not do things the way we might do them. We add glitz and glitter to everything, going bigger which must be better. We get caught up in the hustle and bustle, rich food and expensive presents in big boxes. God turns everything upside down, choosing the lowly and humble above the grand and privileged.
Today’s psalm is a cry for God’s help. The psalmist recognized that the circumstances of God’s people were brought on by their disobedience to God’s word and will. Yet the psalmist had confidence that God would fulfill His promises to His people. He would answer and turn back to them. He would raise them up and shine His face upon them. In their darkest hour, He would come to save them.
This week we are invited to that moment. It is not a moment of glory as we might expect, but instead it is a moment of pain in a stable in Bethlehem as a child is born. The invitation is not for the rich and the powerful, but for the poor and lowly. We are invited to kneel before a manger, but to ultimately to stand at the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ. We will never find salvation in something glitzy, but in the shine of God’s face. It won’t be found in a palace, but in the manger. It won’t be found in the glow of candlelight or Christmas lights, but in the shadow of the cross.
We hang up decorations, we bake, we buy presents. We do so many things to make our world a little nicer, even if it is for just a short period of time. Every year we hear people talking about how busy it is and how far behind they are in preparation. I can’t believe that Christmas is next week! Some of my friends are not putting up all their decorations because it is so much trouble for so little enjoyment. Others skip decorating because they are going to be out of town. “Why bother when we won’t even be here to enjoy it?” We always have an open house on the second Saturday of December, so I rush to get it all done by then. This year we are blessed to have company coming for Christmas, so I’ve happily enjoyed the preparations knowing that they will be enjoyed by all.
I once had a friend who completed all her preparation but was a little depressed about it all. She didn’t know why she went to the trouble because she was going to be alone. I understood, it is so much work. It didn’t help that even her immediate family didn’t care. They didn’t mind the decorations but wouldn’t have missed it if it had not happened. So many people, it seems, have been changing from their old way of doing things, to doing something new.
For many, this new way is simpler, less hectic, more focused. They realized that the old way was void of meaning, void of truth, void of heart. This might be true, especially when you look at that one house in the neighborhood that has so many blow-up decorations on the front lawn that you can’t even see it all. I think in many ways we need bright lights and Christmas overload because our world seems so distressed. We need a little joy.
Christmas displays began early this year, as if people just needed a little Christmas “NOW.” Yet, so much of our celebration has become very shallow. I understand why so many are concerned that we celebrate the birth of our Savior with materialism, greed, exhaustion, and overindulgence. That’s what Charlie Brown saw in “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Instead of living and celebrating the joy of the season and the glow of God’s grace, Charlie Brown saw the materialism all around him and was depressed by it all. He tried to direct the Christmas pageant but seemed to fail at every turn. His friends acted greedy, demanding, and rude. The television show was created in 1965; not much has changed in nearly sixty years.
When we realize that the way we are celebrating Christmas has nothing to do with what the season is all about, we turn around and try something new. We set aside the old ways because they no longer work. That’s why Jesus came in the first place. In today’s epistle lesson, the writer of Hebrews shows us that Jesus came because the old way no longer worked. It was impossible for us to become righteous by obeying the Law, so Jesus did what was necessary to make all things new. The old offerings did nothing to bring forgiveness, but Christ was born and willingly faced the cross, doing God’s will for our sake.
The Christmas story is sweet and wonderful until we realize that Jesus was born to die. It is easier to keep the manger and cross separate. Yet, it was for the cross that Jesus was born and for our sake He came to die. In His act of obedience, Jesus abolished that which came before and made everything better. We might wonder why anyone would bother to do such a gracious thing, but for Jesus it was a total submission to God’s will and purpose for His life.
We are called to do the same, to live as Christ lived. We are called to willingly obey the will and purpose that God has ordained for our life. We aren’t meant to suffer the pain of the cross in the way that Christ suffered, yet we are meant to follow in His footsteps, living in the shadow of the cross and in the light of His glory. Though they may seem very different, they are the very same thing, for it is in the cross that Christ is glorified, and it is there we find our peace. And as Linus said, “That’s what it is all about, Charlie Brown.”
On this fourth Sunday in Advent, we focus on Mary’s song and look at it in the context of her visit to her cousin Elizabeth. Elizabeth was heavy with child, in her sixth month, by the time Mary met the angel Gabriel. It must have been a particularly difficult pregnancy since she was an elderly woman. When Mary heard the words of the angel, she went immediately to see Elizabeth. Mary, who was betrothed to Joseph, had no reason to believe that she might be pregnant at that moment, except for the words of the angel. She doesn’t seem to doubt the words, she simply asks “How can this be, seeing I am a virgin?” The angel answered that it would happen by the power of the Holy Spirit.
I wonder if this was something Mary could feel as it happened. Was there some physical or visual sign that the Holy Spirit had come? Did she experience a tingling or have a sense of the presence? We don’t really know. We only know that Mary did not question the words of the angel but accepted what had been told to her with a willing obedience to the call of God.
Yet, there must have been some sense of uncertainty in Mary because she quickly departed her home and traveled to see her cousin Elizabeth. We don’t know her motives. She was probably scared and needed time to digest the experience and build the strength she would need to face the persecution that would come when her family and friends discovered her seeming indiscretion. I think she also went because Elizabeth’s pregnancy was the sign that the angel gave her to confirm everything. Mary needed to know that Elizabeth was pregnant. It was too ridiculous to believe without seeing. If Elizabeth was indeed having a baby, then everything the angel said was true. It was real. Then Mary could deal with it all knowing that God is indeed with her. It was then that she could sing her song and praise God for this gift. Without this encounter with Elizabeth, Mary may not have ever had the certainty or the strength to stand up against the struggles she would face with her family and friends.
When Mary greeted Elizabeth, the child in her whom leapt for joy and Elizabeth wondered at how she could be so blessed to have a visit from the mother of her Lord. Mary saw that the words of the angel were true and she burst out in praise to God. Her song is called the Magnificat. Mary sang, “For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed. For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name.” Mary knew her blessedness was not found in the great things she had done, but in the things that had been done for her by God. She’s not great because she was the mother of Jesus Christ, Son of God, she is remembered because God chose her to be the God-bearer. She is glorified not in her own works or accomplishments, but because God’s hand had touched her life. Though she is remembered for her humble faith, it is because at the moment of upheaval in her life she sang the words of praise about God’s goodness. She glorified God, and in her song we see God’s glory shining right back on her.
Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three months, probably to help her elderly cousin in those final months of her pregnancy. Mary could do so much for Elizabeth, to allow Elizabeth to stay off her feet and yet still provide for the care of Zechariah. It gave Mary time to pray and to grow accustomed to her situation. It also gave the baby time to grow in her womb until her pregnancy was just becoming visible to the world. It was then that she went back to face her family, her friends and her betrothed. It wouldn’t be easy, but God gave her the strength and courage to walk in faith.
During Advent we take a moment to remember the woman who was chosen to carry the baby Jesus in her womb and then in her arms. She is an incredible example of faith, but we should be careful not to raise Mary to too high a pedestal. There are those who make Mary almost god-like and perfect. She is equated, in some circles, with the goddess of pagan faith.
However, Mary did not need to be perfect to be blessed of God. As a matter of fact, all those chosen by God were imperfect. And the blessing of God does not mean that her life would be perfect. Her life certainly was not pain free. She was just a child when she became pregnant, and she was mistreated as a whore. She gave birth in a cold stable, and then went on the run with her husband and young child to save his life. She deeply loved her son, but at times he seemed to disregard and disrespect her. Think about the stories: He went to the temple, and they could not find him, He told her that it wasn’t time at the wedding in Cana, she went with Jesus’ brothers to talk to Him because they thought He might be crazy. He told her that those listening were His mother and brothers. And then, after all this, Mary watched her Son die a horrible death, executed on the cross.
Mary’s story is not one of a goddess or a woman of sinless perfection. She was a woman, chosen by God to bring the Good News of salvation into the world in the most unique way. She had the rare, single honor of being the one to bear His physical body, but this is not why she is called blessed. She is called blessed because through all these trials, Mary remained humble and faithful to the God she loved.
Mary has been raised to a pedestal that is not hers. She has been made by some to be equal to Jesus in virtue claiming it is necessary for Jesus to be perfect. But this rejects the reality that Jesus is also fully human. Mary gave Him that part of His character. She gave Him the flesh and blood, the will that can be tempted, and the heart that can cry out in agony on the cross. God, the divine aspect of His character, gave Him the ability to stay perfect and sinless. In this passage, Mary herself tells of her failings, crying out in thanksgiving to her Savior. If she were perfect, why would she need to be saved?
Mary deserves our respect, not because she is greater than you and me, but because she is just like us. She was specially chosen to bring the Gospel to the world as no one else could, but she is a sinner just like us. There were times her actions as the mother of Jesus made her an obstacle to His ministry. She was a sinner in need of a Savior, just like you and I.
When you read the scriptures, it is obvious that Jesus came for the poor, the sick and the humble, those who need a Savior to change their lives. He did not reject the rich and healthy, but it was those who had a real need that found refuge in the words and actions of Jesus. There are people in this world who call themselves Christian because they find something in the life of Jesus that they want to emulate. They often see Jesus as a friend, as a role model. Yet, when asked about sin and their need for a Savior, they will deny they have any such need. They do not truly understand the reason Jesus came into the world.
Mary knew. Mary knew that Jesus offered a life-changing gift, the gift of forgiveness and eternal life. If a person sees themselves as good, they have no need for forgiveness and salvation. This is why true faith comes to those with a humble heart. It comes to those who recognize their true need, the need for mercy and grace which is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Gospel is not an example of how we are to live in this world; it is the gift of life for those who are dying from their sin. He gives us everything we truly need.
The psalmist asked God to save Israel from her enemies and from His wrath for their sin. “Turn us again, God. Cause your face to shine, and we will be saved.” There is no salvation apart from God’s presence. God’s people do well when God’s face is shining on them. Though God is never far from us, we tend to turn from Him, to walk away. We turn to others for our help; we sin against God’s Word. The wrath we suffer is deserved.
Try as we might, we can’t restore ourselves to God. We can’t make ourselves righteous enough. We can’t redeem our lives. We can’t do anything to make ourselves worthy of God’s grace, to gain His forgiveness, despite the ways we try. We can’t make God come any closer, even through prayer, because our God is never far. Our petition is not for God to change anything about Himself, but for God to turn us back to Him. “Turn us again, O God.” Mary knew this; she was a humble handmaid of the Lord singing praise to God her Savior.
We are very aware of God’s presence during Advent and Christmas, even in the midst of the glitz and glitter, busy-ness and chaos. Many of the signs are secular, but even those signs point to the baby in the manger for those of us who wait for the Savior. Twinkling lights remind us of the Light, the gifts under our trees remind us of the best gift, and our parties are experiences in hospitality. We are generous not only to those we love, but to strangers as we give to charities serving those in need during this season. Santa Claus might not seem very religious, but his story has a foundation in faith. We can see our God everywhere if we pay attention, in the simple Christmas or Christmas overload, in the big packages and the small. God is with us in the most human ways.
There is so much about the Christmas story that is miraculous and unbelievable: the virgin birth, the star in the east, the visit of the wise men. So many prophecies were fulfilled, prophecies that were given to us by the people of the Old Testament. The child was born in Bethlehem. Rachel cried out as Herod slaughtered the children of Bethlehem. The most miraculous part of the entire Nativity is the faith of those whom God chose to participate. Mary believed. Joseph believed. Elizabeth and Zechariah believed. The wise men believed. The shepherds believed. God spoke and they did whatever God told them to do.
It wasn’t easy for any of them, but they all believed God and did what God told them to do. They had hope that these miraculous things were happening to fulfill His promises. The responded with faith and saw that Jesus is the eternal establishment of all the promises of God made to the covenant community by those who came before them. Mary and the others were not chosen because they were holy. They were made holy because they were chosen, and they believed. God gave us this story and calls us to believe, too. Whether we simplify our Christmas or pick the big boxes, God calls us to believe in Jesus. That little child born in the little town of Bethlehem is the greatest gift which has ever been given to us, and He is the source of the faith that makes our lives holy. He turns us to the God who causes His face to shine on us so that we will be saved.
December 19, 2024
“Consider, you senseless among the people; you fools, when will you be wise? He who implanted the ear, won’t he hear? He who formed the eye, won’t he see? He who disciplines the nations, won’t he punish? He who teaches man knows. Yahweh knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile.” Psalm 94:8-11, WEB
Have you ever felt as if you are not heard? Have you ever been in a conversation, in the middle of saying something, when someone jumps in and interrupts? They have something to say and just can’t wait until you finish putting in their two cents worth. It is hard to get back into the conversation, partly because you stop trying because you feel you aren’t heard. You feel that no one thinks you have something worth hearing.
Many people are quick to speak and very slow to listen. I’ve noticed that there are people who are so busy thinking about what they want to say that they do not even realize that someone else is talking. They don’t hear others. I’ve recently heard the maxim that God gave us two ears to hear and one mouth to talk so that we’ll spend twice as much time listening as talking. We aren’t very good at living that truth, are we?
Unfortunately, this happens with our conversations with God. We are quick to talk and very slow to listen, even to the God who created us. Yet, when we feel like we aren’t being heard by God, we even stop talking. We stop praying when we think that He isn’t hearing us. We wonder why He isn’t answering our prayers. Of course, all too often HE has answered, but we don’t like what He has said. We want Him to meet our needs as we see fit, and we aren’t willing to hear what He is saying about the situation. I know too many people who are lamenting the outcome of our recent election. This isn’t to say that God wanted one person over another in any of our contests, but we are to trust that God has a plan that He is accomplishing despite our opinions and wishes.
We want to be heard and when things don’t come out the way we want, we don’t think God is listening. This causes some people to stop praying. Why bother when God isn’t answering to our satisfaction? But the Psalmist calls us fools for thinking that way! God created the ears, how can we ever think that He doesn’t hear? He knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows what our need better than we do. He wants to hear our prayers, but He also wants us to listen to what He is saying. At those moments when we really don’t think that we are heard, God reminds us that He does hear us. He is listening. He has the right answer, and He calls us to trust that He is doing something spectacular in our lives.
It might not seem like it. It is hard to feel blessed when our lives are not going the way we hope. But when we listen to Him, we realize that He has something even better waiting for us. We might have to struggle for a time, but God has heard our cries. We might face difficulty, but God will use it for His good in our lives. He knows what we don’t know. Let us listen to Him and trust that He is working in the world in ways that will redeem and reconcile those who hear and believe.
December 20, 2024
“Then little children were brought to him that he should lay his hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, ‘Allow the little children, and don’t forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these.’” Matthew 19:13-14, WEB
This week was the week of the children at our church. We had a special service on Sunday in which the children presented the Christmas story in several acts; their witness was accompanied by music from our choirs, praise band, and other talented musicians. The children from our school put on a program Wednesday night, sharing the Good News of Jesus with family and friends. Everyone did a wonderful job, we left both programs uplifted and rejoicing. It is no surprise that Jesus encouraged us to look to the children for signs of His grace. They have a way of sharing the message so that we’ll hear and believe with the sweet innocence of childhood, just like them. For, as Jesus says, the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like them.
On December 20, 1747, a pastor named John de Watteville held a special service on Christmas Eve at his Moravian Church in Germany. Each of the children was given a “Christingle” or “Christ-light.” The service was designed to teach the children the true meaning of Christmas, the love of God, so that they would go out and share that love with the world. The children were encouraged to place their Christingle in the window of their house, to shine the light of Christ to all who pass by.
The materials of each Christingle represented different aspects of God's love. The base was an orange, round like the world representing God’s love in creation. Four sticks poked into the orange represented God’s love in the four seasons of the year. Each stick held fruits and sweets, representing God’s love in providing the fruits of the earth. Wrapped around the orange was a red ribbon, representing God’s love in the death and resurrection of Jesus. A lighted candle represented God’s love in sending Jesus, the Light of the World, to be with us always.
Churches around England still hold Christingle Services, to honor the children and share the love of Christ with them. The churches use the service to support the Children’s Society, an organization that helps children and young people around England and Wales.
The children of our church and school are so very blessed to be part of a community that loves and encourages them, but this isn’t true for all children around the world. This Christmastime, as you enjoy special family time, remember that there are children that will not have a happy Christmas for a variety of reasons. We might not have Christingle services in churches in the U.S. but there are plenty of opportunities to share resources with children whose families are struggling. Take time, not only to pray for these children, but also to give of yourself so that they might know they are loved. Give as you are able: time, food, clothes, or toys. Most of all share the love and light of Christ, so that they might come to inherit the kingdom of heaven.
December 23, 2024
December 24, 2024
December 25, 2024
December 26, 2024
December 27, 2024
December 30, 2024
December 31, 2024