"So, getting ready for Christmas?" For just a few weeks each year, it replaces "How 'bout this weather?" as one of our society's favorite "How do I make interesting small talk?" lines.
I submit to you that far too often, we don't think enough about the deeply theological implications of this question. Instead, when we ask/are asked this question, it is usually in the context of gift-buying, travel plans, dinner menus, or navigating the quite delicate matters of family/relationship politics. Realistically speaking, for us to look at this question, either from an asking or answering mode, in these ways is to, intentionally or not, minimize completely what we as the people of the Kingdom of God, should be doing to get ready for Christmas.
When we are asked this question, we who are the church, we have a very solid answer with deep roots that go back centuries; our answer to the question is, "Of course. I'm joining with the church past, present, and future in observing Advent."
While it may seem to be the simple and obvious answer, take a minute to look at your schedule for today and the rest of the month. How much of this day/month will be spent engaged in shopping, cooking, family politicking, etc.? How much of these activities are going to prepare you for deep spiritual and theological reflection on the implications of Christ's arrival in the world and help you anticipate his second coming?
"So, getting ready for Christmas?" May we lead lives in such a way that the answer is, "Yes." Make time to attend the Advent Luncheons/Bible Studies on Wednesdays from 12:10-12:50 (starting today). Make time to be in worship every Sunday morning, gathering as one with the people of God to worship the Divine. Make time to attend the Night in Bethlehem hands-on family experience this Sunday evening starting at 5:30PM. Make time to attend the other events on our Advent calendar.
After all, Advent is about far more than different decorations in the sanctuary and different colors on the altar. Christmas is far too important for us to not prepare for it properly by immersing ourselves in the Advent activities of the church.
See You Soon!
Lamar
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