The Season of Hope!

Jeremiah 33: 14 says—"'The days are coming,' declares the LORD, 'when I will fulfill the gracious promise I made to the house of Israel and to the house of Judah.”

This reminds me of the story about the aunt talking to her nephew just after Christmas. Being very apologetic she says, "I'm sorry you didn't like my Christmas gift. But I asked if you preferred a small check or a large check. Remember?”

With his head hung in disappointment, the nephew replies, "I know. But I didn't think you were talking about ties." Yes --the gift which that young man received wasn't what he expected. It caught him off guard. It took him totally by surprise because it was so completely unexpected.

Well--isn’t that what Advent is all about? How God catches us by surprise? How God’s Word intrudes upon us and our lives just when we least expect it? And in incredibly unforeseen ways? Yes—that’s part of the joy of this season, part of the joy of our faith, and part of the joy of our relationship with God. You see—God plays by God’s rules, not ours. Thanks be to God!

Jeremiah says—“The days are coming.” Yes--in Advent, the church boldly proclaims the approaching righteousness of God. Proclaiming--The Lord Jesus Christ! I believe this is crucial because it is a real source of hope. You see--the world, our lives, our days cannot live without hope. Anticipating what God is going to do—strengthens us for faithful and fruitful living.

Each year the season of Advent calls the community of faith to prepare for the visit of God’s salvation. Our work is to anticipate that which God will do to bring fulfillment to all people. We are preparing for the event in the stable at Bethlehem which brings together “the hopes and fears of all the years.” Yes--“The days are coming,” and we must make ready. So, lift your heads and let your hearts be strengthened. God is doing a new thing, and to us has come the joyous and holy task of helping the world get ready for the most blessed event of history! Amen.

~ Rev. Kathy

Joy amidst the Mourning

Have you ever noticed how life turns you around, spins you upside down, throws you up and then dumps you on the ground? And in those moments of concern, grief, and anxiety - you find yourself occasionally smiling, or laughing out loud, or possibly having a downright belly-aching, heartfelt guffaw! Makes me think of roller coasters!

Personally, I love roller coasters. Ones that take me higher in the air and faster than I would even dare to dream about going on my own. I like the feeling of not being in control, I like knowing I'm not alone on my wild ride, and I like knowing someone else is in control.

This is the way life has been for me - for us - our family. In the midst of celebrating Stephanie's wedding, we cried and remembered Matthew's absence in our celebrations. But we found ways for each of us to celebrate his presence in our hearts and in our lives, because he truly is with us everyday. Not a day goes by where we don't think about him and miss his smile or quiet presence. Yet, I am so grateful to have my memories of Matthew and to be able to celebrate the milestones and wonderful moments we are given in life today.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." - Jeremiah 29:11-13