Pastor’s Blog – December 2011

The Worship Team has chosen to theme our advent observance around the question “Where is He…”  It was the question asked by the Magi, and most likely ran through the minds of the shepherds as the searched Bethlehem for the one that was made known to them by the angels. “We have heard, we have seen, we want to find the one proclaimed to us.”

We chose this phrase because it remains to this day the most pertinent of questions. It is asked by believers in stressful times when faith can waiver. It is asked by seekers of truth in a quest for ultimate reality. It is mockingly asked by those who seek to discredit the gospel and by scientists as they seek to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

In truth, it ought to be on the lips of each of us as we spend this advent season on our yearly pilgrimage to Bethlehem. We may be surprised at where we find our Lord. If he stays consistent with the scriptures, it may be among the poor and marginalized of our culture; amongst immigrants, illegal or not; amongst those of the occupiers who call for economic justice; the jobless who struggle valiantly to provide for family and self. We just might see him dressed in a Santa suit, ringing a bell in front of markets and on corners of the city; or delivering food and distributing clothing out of a sense of urgency to bring some sort of hope to people who are loosing hope of any bright future. We may even find him within the church building, wherever two or more are gathered in authentic faith, and worship in spirit and in truth.

During our Hanging of the Greens Sunday worship, we noted the within the name “Emmanuel” we are reminded the God is with us. Within that concept lies the true challenge for the committed disciple.

If God is with us, ought it not to be obvious? Might those who are asking the question “Where is He?”

most regularly be able to find the answer in the attitudes and actions of those who bear his name? Our challenge and mission for this and all seasons is to bear witness to the truth that “God is with us.” The good news of great joy can only be heard and believed by all people when we prayerfully ask of God to reveal to us where the salt and light might need to shine amidst our daily routines.

May the Spirit accompany you with great power on your journey to Bethlehem and beyond.

Blessings for the season,

Pastor John                                                              12.2011