The Journey: From Nazareth to Bethlehem

Mary and Joseph undertook a 75 mile journey that would result in the birth of our Savior. In recalling the circumstances surrounding the birth, we would note several things.

First, what set the stage for the place of Jesus' birth was a decree for all to be registered in the town of their heritage. The town would be for Joseph's ancestry, which would be the town of Bethlehem. We also remember the prophecy about Bethlehem in the book of Micah (5:2-4).

Then, we note that Mary is pregnant and even in this condition undergoes the journey, which probably caused some anxiety among her and Joseph.

Finally, we note that when they arrive in Bethlehem, there is no place for them to stay! They must settle for a cave, a less than ideal situation for the birth.

Luke, the Gospel writer, frames the story as a narrative giving us the historical setting by mentioning the emperor. Luke is reporting the greatest moment in history. It is the Son of God entering into our humanity. This birth is truly God's ultimate revelation and God seeking to come to us in a way that would demonstrate the depth of divine love.

The story, as humble as it is, ought to cause us to pause and remember this great event in history - all orchestrated by God. I hope you can come and adore the Christ-child this weekend. We can be thankful that God has sent Jesus to be the Savior of the world. We need to worship him.

Tree Decorating with Chrismons

This Sunday will be the occasion for us to decorate the tree in the sanctuary. The decorating will be done during worship where an explanation will be given for each ornament. The chrismons were made by members of the church years ago. The various symbols, for the most part, highlight the life of Christ.

I look forward to this service that will add the final touch of decorating.

Also, the Praise Dancers from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chicago will be present to give us special music and their interpretations with dance.

Making Witness to Jesus during This Season

This coming Sunday (December 11) is the Third Sunday of Advent and we light three candles on our Advent Log. The third candle is pink in color that represents the theme of rejoicing.

We can think of the light in these candles in the context of Jesus being the light of the world. In this Sunday's Gospel we have the words "There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. " John 1:6-7.

John came to help prepare folks for Jesus' public ministry. John wanted to make absolutely clear that he was not the "light." He came merely to point to Jesus, who is the light.

At this time of the year, it's easy to get caught up in ourselves in our preparation for the holidays. However, we also need to know that it is Jesus' birthday that we are celebrating at the end of the month. How will you bear witness to this light this season?

Since the pink Advent candle is lit for this Sunday, I would like to think that it is with a sense of "joy" within us that we can bear witness. While many people might appear despondent or gloomy, we can witness by the joy that we exhibit. My message on Sunday will have us go into greater depth on how we can bear witness to the light.