From Christmas - Quiet Moments for the Season...
A survey showed that 84 percent of people in the United States want a less materialistic holiday season. I suspect the same is true of people in many countries. But when all roads lead to the shopping malls, what is the pathway towards a more spiritual and meaningful celebration of Christ's birth?
Some church leaders are suggesting that we put more attention on the observance of Advent, the four-week period before Christmas. Instead of filling those days with activity and ending up physically and spiritually depleted, we need to recall that "those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (Isaiah 40:31).
Even with a busy calendar of school and church programs, and family obligations, we can still carve out time to "hope in the Lord" and to concentrate on the true meaning of this season. We can determine to make the most of our times of daily Bible reading and prayer, and to give people priority over things.
As we take time to focus on Christ's birth and to strengthen our relationship with Him, this time of year can become a season of renewal instead of exhaustion.
- David McCasland
From Our Daily Bread...
The Spirit of Christmas - Read Matthew 23:34-40
"Whatever you did for one of the least of these... you did for me." - Matthew 25:40
At a Christmas dinner held at our church to celebrate the cultures of the international guests, I joyfully clapped along to the sound of the darbuka (a type of drum) and the oud (a guitar like instrument) as a band played the traditional Middle Eastern carol, "Laylat Al-Milad." The bands singers explained the title means "Nativity Night." The lyrics remind hearers that the spirit of Christmas is found in serving others, in ways like offering a thirsty person water or comforting someone weeping.
This carol likely draws from a parable where Jesus commends His followers for deeds they'd done for Him: providing food when He was hungry, drink when He was thirsty, and companionship and care when he was sick and alone (Matthew 25:34-36). Instead of simply accepting Jesus' commendation, the people in the parable are surprised - thinking they hadn't actually done these things for Christ. He responded, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (v.40).
During the holiday season, the encouragement to get in the Christmas spirit is often a nudge toward expressing a festive attitude. "Laylat Al-Milad" reminds us that we can put in to practice the true Christmas spirit by caring for others. And amazingly, when we do, we not only serve others but Jesus too.
- Lisa M Samra
I love Advent! (as you probably guessed). But it’s not a four-week thing. It can be, but it can also be three weeks - it depends on what day Christmas falls on. It always starts on Sunday, and there are four Sundays in Advent. That little mouse cookie shop is just perfect!
ReplyDeleteYes, Advent is a special time!
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