JOY of FAITH

This time of the year presents the church with a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the joy of our faith. When I was a pastor, I never could wait until December 25 to haul out the holly or sing the songs of Christmas. Now is the time to pull out all the stops, deck the halls, get the bathrobes and angel wings ready, let the choirs blend their voices: “Sing we Now of Christmas!”

For many of us, we remember the joy of childhood as Christmas day drew near. I don’t recall ever hearing the term “Advent” back then, but we all knew it was about Jesus’ birth, and all the extra activities just added to the importance of it.

In many ways the church at Christmas has been the Gospel at its best. We were all focused on Christ, and everyone was involved in the worship and festivities. There was enthusiasm along with hope for our world. There seemed to be more love, joy, and peace. Isn’t that Advent?

One of my favorite songs of the season says, “I wonder as I wander.” I fear that theology without passion for Christ puts us in danger of wandering without the wonder. Losing the wonder is like a candle with the flame flickering out.

The last few years have knocked the Gospel train off its track. The pandemic along with fighting and fears have scattered the sheep. It is time to gather them back into the fields of God’s Love. Let them experience once again the Glory of the Lord upon them as the angels proclaim His birth.

Shepherds of the sheep, it might be time for a return visit to Bethlehem within our own soul and see once again this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. We too may return to our sheep glorifying and praising God.

Please forgive my ramblings, but we have got to get it back. The greatest Gift of all has come to us. It is time to unwrap our heart and once again experience Jesus with a new spirit. Don’t wait another day: Joy to the world, the Lord has already come, so tell it out my soul!