And so it begins...or should I
say, it continues. In truth, the Christmas season began some time ago.
Decorations in retail stores have been on display for more than a month, the
Hallmark Channel has been showing Christmas movies since Halloween, and I got my
first Christmas card two weeks ago! We know how to market Christmas...but do we
really know how to celebrate Christmas?
Thanksgiving leftovers remain
fresh in our refrigerators while toys and gadgets of all kinds are flying off
the shelves this Black Friday. The leap from gratitude to full-blown
commercialism seems a short span for most of us. Perhaps that is why Advent is
so important. Advent calls us to wait, to anticipate what is to come. It
requires that we tune out, as best we can, the noise and rush of a season that
seems ever expanding and ever pervasive. Yes, I love the lights, sounds, sights
and smells of the season and I understand how easy it can be to get caught up in
all of it. I also understand, however, that the blessing of Christmas comes not
in the way it is marketed, but in the way it is celebrated.
Beginning on Sunday, you will receive a daily Advent devotional from me as
a reminder of the focus of our celebration, God's great Son, Jesus, the Christ.
Pause each day as you read these brief words and reflect on your own
preparations to receive and celebrate anew the coming of the Christ child.
Listen, ponder, wait...no, these aren't terms that are often used to
market a holiday, but they are appropriate for a faithful celebration of the
season.
I hope you will join us this Sunday for worship as Cindy and Olga will be
sharing their special holiday duets. Remember also that we will observe our
Fifth Sunday Mission Emphasis by making sandwiches and preparing lunches for the
Bailey's Crossroads Community Center immediately following worship in Whitten
Hall. This event is an opportunity for all ages to share in making a difference
for others in the name of Christ. if you have company visiting for the
holidays, bring them along. We will have a great time together.
Jim Abernathy
No comments:
Post a Comment