Smart Thoughts

The Advent season is here! Let me invite you to take the time to read the accounts of the birth of Jesus. If you still have children in your home, what a wonderful way to help them see the true meaning of Christmas as the family circles together to share hot chocolate, cookies and the stories of a child that was born so that we might know the fullness of God’s grace.

You will find one reading beginning with Matthew 1: 18. Share with one another about the visit of an angel. Who does Matthew say the angel visited? I suspect it is not who you think. What name was the baby to be given according to the prophet? What does Matthew tell us about the shepherds? Matthew tells us of King Herod and wise men. Stop and consider all the amazing things about these “noble” men. Can you imagine the pain caused by the fear of a ruler?

A different account of the birth of Jesus comes to us from Luke’s gospel, the second chapter. Who were the travelers in this story and who were the visitors? How is this telling different from Matthew’s? Luke’s story does not begin in chapter two, In Luke 1:26, we read of an angelic visit, but not the same one Matthew shares. Luke gives us an idea of the holiness of Mary, God’s choice for giving us a savior. You can learn a great deal about this faith-filled woman from Luke.

May this Advent season be one filled with joy, amazement, love, forgiveness, blessings, awe, and holy sharing. When the crowds and shopping become hectic, may you know patience. When the world focus is on gift buying, snowmen and Santa Claus, may you be Christ-centered. As you look at all the beautiful yard decorations, be aware of just how absent Jesus is in the yards and in the hearts of those he came to love. You will not have a better time to share with those you know and love the stories of the birth of Jesus and the experience of Jesus at Christmas Eve Communion and Candlelight.

See you in worship,

P. S. Thanks to all of you for working so hard on our Thanksgiving Dinner and for your generous giving. At the time of writing this letter we are only about $1,400 away for completing our giving to the ministries of the United Methodist Church represented in our apportionments and the asking of designated ministries. May you feel the joy of giving so generously.