Word to the Wise
Wednesday, December 25, 2013 -
[Isaiah 9:1-6; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-14]The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger."
"Do not be afraid, Mary!" "Do not be afraid, Joseph!" "Do not be afraid, Zechariah!" "Do not be afraid, [shepherds]!" The angels of this season are consistent in their message! Very important things are happening, but no one should be afraid: not Mary, not Joseph, not Zechariah, and not the shepherds, who represent US! Now that we are 2000+ years after the event, what might there be to be afraid of? The nativity scene with "Silent Night" playing around it seems peaceful and reassuring! Families are gathering. Gifts are being wrapped and last minute shopping and baking are being done! What is there to frighten us? This is now a season of joy, isn't it? Yes, it is, for those of us fortunate to live in peace!
Today we can be thankful for that joy, but the nativity scene takes place in the Middle East where there is much to be afraid of. On this day of joy, we can remember that the child in the manger or anywhere else in Syria, Israel, Palestine has much to be afraid of! Jesus' parents had Herod to be afraid of! The nativity scene and the message of the angels cries out to us: PEACE ON EARTH! Can we be inspired to go beyond our living rooms of celebration and pray with the angels, Mary, Joseph and the newborn Christ Child for PEACE ON EARTH! It could be the grandest Christmas present of all - to be rid of fear!
To all my Beloved Congregation today, I wish a peace-filled Christmas celebration of joy at the birth of the Lord! I will gratefully remember you all at the celebration of the Eucharist today! AMEN