From the Pastor's Pen

Dear friends,

I like this nativity picture.  Some might say it’s not complete, and it’s not.  The baby Jesus isn’t there yet.  But I like how Mary and Joseph are looking for him.  He’s not there yet, but they are intend on seeing him.

One of the odd things about being a pastor is that I am often way ahead of the congregation in the holy seasons of the church.  I always notice this at Christmas time in particular.  I begin Advent a week before everyone else when I am preparing my first Advent sermon usually before Thanksgiving.  My Christmas Eve message is now prepared and it isn’t even 4^th Advent yet.  It is part of life for pastors.  I’m never quite sure what day it is at this time of year!  That’s part of why I like looking at this picture.  Jesus isn’t there yet.  It’s still Advent, but Mary and Joseph are looking for him!  It’s a good reminder of what we should be doing at this time of year.

I had a lovely conversation with a member of our church today.  She was telling me all about some of the challenges in her family and at the same time recounting the blessings of God in the midst of those challenges.  It became clear as the conversation continued that this dear woman is someone who looks for God in her life every day and finds God faithful and present.

On this Advent day, may you look diligently for the presence of God and know that God is near whether you can see him or not.

Peace,

Pr. Sally