Reflection for the Fourth Week of Advent

(Note:  This year the 4th Sunday of Advent AND Christmas Eve are the same day.  Makes things a little crazier, so I thought I'd post this early...maybe it will help ease some of the chaos that often comes with the season.)

 The lectionary passages for this week are:    

  • 2 Samuel 7:1-11,16,  
  • Luke 1:46b-55 or Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 , 
    • Romans 16:25-27 , Luke 1:26-38

    Advent is coming to a close.  During the season we have been filled with hope, peace and joy.  Are we now ready to receive the love that comes in the form of a small child who was born in a stable?  

     In the middle of the rush, it is easy to forget that Christmas is really all about love.  As it says in Psalm 89: " I will sing of your steadfast love, O LORD, forever; with my mouth I will proclaim your faithfulness to all generations. 89:2 I declare that your steadfast love is established forever; your faithfulness is as firm as the heavens. "  It should be no surprise that this time of Advent and Christmas we sing carols, hymns and anthems of love.

     In Christ, not only do we know God's love, but we see it in action.  We see that love does not have to come neatly gift wrapped; God loves us and shows us love no matter where we are or what we look like; even if we are born into the lowest of stations.  God gives us his love no matter what.  We do not have to "prove" ourselves for love, but to show God's love for all humankind we need to be as open to giving love as we are to receiving it.

     Application:  What can we do this week that reflects God's love for us?  Is it bringing food to the Montclair Food Bank?  Is it volunteering to help out a friend?  Is it just giving a smile to a stranger?  Be mindful this week and spread just a little of the love that God has shown us each day.


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