December 2018
Somewhat unbelievably, it’s already Advent; the Church year has begun again, and we are once again preparing for the coming of Christ into the world. I know at my house, we surround ourselves with beloved objects and traditions, things and actions that connect us with our families and our past. It’s one of the things we love so much about the season! But in the midst of this, there is also the remembrance that the coming of Jesus was disruptive in his time, and it still is. His birth and his kingship were nothing like anyone expected. His teachings echoed the sternest of the prophets of Israel. Traditions and familiar objects took a back seat to his primary proclamation: the Kingdom of God is at hand, and though it may be disruptive, we can trust God in the midst of all the changes.
In the spirit of renewal, rebirth, and change, what might each of us do differently this Advent and Christmas? What might express the presence of God’s Kingdom among us? You’ll find many opportunities to serve our neighbors with food, clothing, shelter, and warmth in this newsletter. Perhaps as a family you might choose one new activity to do together. There also times to gather as a church, to come together in the Sanctuary, away from the upheaval and cares of the world, and experience the closeness of friendship and love in
Christ. Take some time from the busy schedule of events for that too!
And finally, I invite you to look within. In the carol “Joy to the World” we sing, “Let every heart prepare Him room.” What space will he find prepared in our hearts, to inhabit and inspire so that we may love and serve in his name?
In the dark season of the year, our hearts are made merry by the lights and the decorations and the things we do to welcome once again our Savior, Jesus the Christ, into the world and into our lives. I wish you a Blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas!
Rev. Mary E. Biedron
Somewhat unbelievably, it’s already Advent; the Church year has begun again, and we are once again preparing for the coming of Christ into the world. I know at my house, we surround ourselves with beloved objects and traditions, things and actions that connect us with our families and our past. It’s one of the things we love so much about the season! But in the midst of this, there is also the remembrance that the coming of Jesus was disruptive in his time, and it still is. His birth and his kingship were nothing like anyone expected. His teachings echoed the sternest of the prophets of Israel. Traditions and familiar objects took a back seat to his primary proclamation: the Kingdom of God is at hand, and though it may be disruptive, we can trust God in the midst of all the changes.
In the spirit of renewal, rebirth, and change, what might each of us do differently this Advent and Christmas? What might express the presence of God’s Kingdom among us? You’ll find many opportunities to serve our neighbors with food, clothing, shelter, and warmth in this newsletter. Perhaps as a family you might choose one new activity to do together. There also times to gather as a church, to come together in the Sanctuary, away from the upheaval and cares of the world, and experience the closeness of friendship and love in
Christ. Take some time from the busy schedule of events for that too!
And finally, I invite you to look within. In the carol “Joy to the World” we sing, “Let every heart prepare Him room.” What space will he find prepared in our hearts, to inhabit and inspire so that we may love and serve in his name?
In the dark season of the year, our hearts are made merry by the lights and the decorations and the things we do to welcome once again our Savior, Jesus the Christ, into the world and into our lives. I wish you a Blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas!
Rev. Mary E. Biedron